steam hammer
Definition
- Noun:
- A large, heavy hammer in which the driving force is provided by steam pressure. It is typically used in forging, metalworking, and blacksmithing operations to shape or deform metal.
Usage Examples
- (A steam-powered hammer applied to shape metal.)
- (The invention changed industrial manufacturing.)
Advanced Usage
"to operate a steam hammer": to control the machine's steam-driven mechanism for precise or forceful blows.
- The experienced engineer knew exactly how to operate the steam hammer to avoid damaging the workpiece. (Controlled use of the tool for delicate or heavy tasks.)
"steam hammer forging": the process of shaping metal using a steam hammer.
- Steam hammer forging allowed for the mass production of high-quality steel parts. (A specific industrial technique.)
Variants and Related Words
- Steam hammer (n): the standard term; no common variant forms.
- Hammer (n): a general tool for striking, of which the steam hammer is a specialized type.
- A regular hammer is hand-held, but a steam hammer is a large machine. (Comparison of tools.)
Synonyms
- Power hammer: a broad term for any mechanically driven hammer, including steam hammers.
- Forging hammer: a hammer used specifically for forging metal.
- The steam hammer is a type of forging hammer powered by steam.
Phrasal Verbs
- Hammer out: to work out or resolve something through effort or negotiation (figurative use, not directly related to the tool).
- They hammered out a deal after hours of discussion. (Resolved through effort; note: this does not involve a physical steam hammer.)
Related Idioms
Come down like a steam hammer: to strike or act with overwhelming force or impact.
- The new regulations came down like a steam hammer on small businesses. (An idiom meaning sudden, powerful effect.)
Under the hammer: to be sold at auction; not directly related to the tool but uses "hammer" figuratively.
- The antique steam hammer went under the hammer for a high price. (Sold at auction.)