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Definition of hex key

hex key

Plural:hex keys
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• noun

1

A small, typically L-shaped hand tool used for driving bolts or screws that have a hexagonal socket in their heads.

Example

"You will need a four-millimeter hex key to securely assemble the wooden frame of the bed."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for hex key

Word Nuance & Usage

In many English-speaking regions, a hex key is most commonly referred to by the proprietary eponym 'Allen wrench' (chiefly North American) or 'Allen key' (chiefly British and Commonwealth).

• Nearby Words

heuristics
hew
hex
hex key
hexagon
hexagonal
hey

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Hex key. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/hex-key
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