Search Dictionary
Definition of screwdriver

screwdriver

/ˈskruːˌdraɪvɚ/
screw · driv · er
Plural:screwdrivers
JUMP TO:

screwdriver Lexical Profile

screwdriver Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A hand tool or power tool attachment with a specially shaped tip that fits into the head of a screw, used for turning, driving, or removing screws.

Example

"He used a Phillips-head screwdriver to tighten the loose hinge on the kitchen cabinet."

2

A highball cocktail consisting simply of vodka and orange juice served over ice.

Example

"She ordered a screwdriver at the bar while waiting for the rest of her party to arrive."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for screwdriver

• Nearby Words

screw
screwball
screwcap
screwdriver
screwed
screwhead
screwlike

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the late 18th century as a compound of 'screw' and 'driver'. The cocktail name originated in the mid-20th century, purportedly because American oil workers in the Middle East stirred the drink with an actual screwdriver.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Screwdriver. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/screwdriver
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.