wrecking bar
Definition
Noun: A wrecking bar is a heavy iron lever with one end forged into a wedge. It is a tool designed for prying, pulling nails, and demolition work, utilizing its weight and leverage.
Usage
The term "wrecking bar" is used to refer to the specific tool itself. It is a compound noun where "wrecking" describes the tool's primary function (demolition or wrecking), and "bar" describes its form (a long, solid piece).
Examples
- The carpenter used a wrecking bar to remove the old, stubborn nails from the floorboards.
- For the demolition, they equipped themselves with heavy-duty tools like a wrecking bar and a sledgehammer.
- A wrecking bar is essential for prying apart wooden frames during renovation.
Advanced Usage
- The term can be used metaphorically to describe a force or person that causes destruction or dismantling.
- Example: The new evidence acted as a wrecking bar to the prosecution's case.
Variants and Related Words
- Crowbar: A more general term for a metal bar used as a lever, often with a curved end. A wrecking bar is a specific type of crowbar.
- Pry bar: A general term for tools used for prying things open or apart.
- Nail puller: A tool specifically designed for extracting nails; a wrecking bar often serves this function.
Synonyms
- Lever
- Pry
- Jimmy (informal, often for a shorter tool used in burglary)
Related Phrases/Idioms
- To pry [something] open/off/out with a wrecking bar: Describes the specific action of using the tool.
- Example: They had to pry the door open with a wrecking bar after it was jammed shut by the flood.
Noun
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a heavy iron lever with one end forged into a wedge
