tool
noun (1)
\ ˈtül
\
\
Definition of tool
(Entry 1 of 3)
1a
: a handheld device that aids in accomplishing a task
b(1)
: the cutting or shaping part in a machine or machine tool
(2)
: a machine for shaping metal : machine tool
2a
: something (such as an instrument or apparatus) used in performing an operation or necessary in the practice of a vocation or profession
a scholar's books are his tools
b
: an element of a computer program (such as a graphics application) that activates and controls a particular function
a drawing tool
c
: a means to an end
a book's cover can be a marketing tool
3a
: one who is used or manipulated by another
And then there was former trainer Pfeil, viewed as another tool of management for his gruff ways.— Sam Smith
b
informal
: a foolish or unlikable person : jerk
Before you compete on a reality TV show, you basically sign away your right to protect yourself from looking like a total tool in front of an international viewing audience.— Steve Tilley
4
tools plural
: natural ability
has all the tools to be a great pitcher
tool
verb
tooled;
tooling;
tools
Definition of tool (Entry 2 of 3)
2
: to equip a plant or industry with the means (such as machines, machine tools, and instruments) of production
—often used with up
1
: to shape, form, or finish with a tool
especially
: to letter or ornament (something, such as leather or gold) by means of hand tools
2a
: to cause (a vehicle) to go : drive
b
: to convey in a vehicle
3
: to equip (a factory, an industry, etc.) with tools, machines, and instruments for production
tool
noun (2)Definition of tool (Entry 3 of 3)
: a design (as on the binding of a book) made by tooling
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Examples of tool in a Sentence
Verb
We tooled along the highway. He tooled a design on the leather belt. a belt made of tooled leather
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More Definitions for tool
tool
verbEnglish Language Learners Definition of tool
US, informal
: to drive or ride in a vehicle
: to shape, form, or finish (something) with a tool
See the full definition for tool in the English Language Learners Dictionary
tool
noun
\ ˈtül
\
\
Kids Definition of tool
(Entry 1 of 2)
1
: an instrument (as a saw, file, knife, or wrench) used or worked by hand or machine to perform a task
2
: something that helps to gain an end
“… the dictionary is the finest tool ever made for educating young minds …”— Andrew Clements, Frindle
3
: a person used by another : dupe
tool
verb
tooled;
tooling
Kids Definition of tool (Entry 2 of 2)
1
: to drive or ride in a vehicle
2
: to shape, form, or finish with a tool
3
: to equip a plant or industry with machines and tools for production