tool

The word “tool” means a physical device used to carry out a task, especially one held in the hand. In plain terms, a physical instrument for a job, or more broadly, anything (an app, a skill, a method) that helps you get something done.

“Tool” is pronounced tool (/tul/ in IPA).

Here is “tool” used in a sentence: “He keeps his tools organized in the garage.”

Words with a similar meaning to “tool” include use.

Depending on how it is used, “tool” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “tool” comes from Old English. From Old English tol ("implement"), from Proto-Germanic, ultimately related to a root meaning "to prepare.".

“Tool” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.

“Tool” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a physical device used to carry out a task, especially one held in the hand.

A tool is typically a simple device, often handheld, that you power and guide yourself, like a hammer or screwdriver. A machine has moving parts and its own power source to do work, like a drill or engine. Many powered tools blur the line and are called power tools.

Tools are commonly grouped into hand tools, such as hammers, spanners, and saws, and power tools, which run on electricity or batteries. Others are grouped by trade or purpose, like gardening tools, cutting tools, or measuring tools, each designed for a particular kind of task.

Yes. Figuratively, a tool is anything used to achieve a purpose, such as software tools, a research tool, or education as a tool for change. The core idea stays the same: a means to carry out a task, even when nothing is held in the hand.

Everyday examples include a hammer, screwdriver, saw, spanner, and drill, devices held in the hand to build, fix, or shape things. Broader examples cover kitchen tools like a whisk, or digital tools such as a calculator app.