saw-horse
Definition
Noun: A "saw-horse" is a frame or rack used to support wood or other material while it is being cut with a saw. It typically consists of a horizontal beam with four legs, forming a stable platform.
Usage Examples
- (A frame used for supporting material during sawing.)
- (A pair of such frames used together for larger projects.)
Advanced Usage
"to work on a saw-horse": to perform tasks like sawing, chiseling, or planing on a supported surface.
- The woodworker spent the afternoon shaping the legs of the table on a saw-horse. (He used the frame as a workbench for detailed cutting.)
"saw-horse as a temporary workbench": In workshops or construction sites, saw-horses are often used as makeshift tables.
- We used a saw-horse as a temporary workbench for painting the fence. (A frame improvised for a different purpose.)
Variants and Related Words
Saw-buck (noun): an alternative name for a saw-horse, especially one with crossed legs.
- He loaded the logs onto the saw-buck for splitting. (Synonym for saw-horse.)
Sawing jack (noun): another term for a saw-horse, less common.
- The old carpenter called his tool a sawing jack. (A variant name.)
Synonyms
- Trestle: a similar frame with a horizontal beam and legs, often used for supporting a table or scaffold.
- Rack: a framework used for holding or supporting items.
Related Idioms
"as steady as a saw-horse": to be very stable or reliable.
- He is as steady as a saw-horse when it comes to making decisions. (He is dependable and unshakeable.)
"to have a saw-horse in the workshop": to be prepared for practical tasks.
- Every good carpenter has a saw-horse in the workshop. (A sign of readiness for woodworking.)