What does screwdriver mean?
A screwdriver is a hand tool used to turn screws into or out of wood, metal, or other materials. It typically consists of a handle and a narrow shaft ending in a tip that fits the head of a screw, such as a flat or Phillips-head design. The word can also mean a mixed drink traditionally made with vodka and orange juice; in British English, the spelling may occasionally appear as “screw driver,” though “screwdriver” is the standard modern form. Electric and cordless screwdrivers are also common and can handle larger or repetitive fastening tasks more efficiently. The word is straightforward in its ordinary sense but carries a secondary cultural association with the cocktail, making it a useful example of how a familiar tool name can acquire an unrelated culinary meaning.
A hand tool used to drive or remove screws.
"He tightened the hinge with a small screwdriver."
The word is commonly paired with descriptions of the drive type, such as “flat-head,” “Phillips-head,” “electric,” or “cordless.”
A mixed alcoholic drink made with vodka and orange juice.
"The bartender poured a screwdriver for the guest."
This is an informal culinary and cocktail use, especially common in British, American, and Australian English.
The plural is formed by adding the ending -s.
"The toolbox contains several screwdrivers of different sizes."
A screwdriver may be simple to use, but it has inspired a famously strong mixed drink of vodka and orange juice.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does screwdriver come from?
The compound “screwdriver” was formed in the early 19th century from “screw” and “driver,” a tool or person that drives or forces something. The suffix “-driver” was already used for instruments that drive objects or perform an action. The word later acquired its drink meaning, probably through association with the screwdriver’s everyday use as a tool for opening bottles.
How screwdriver is actually used
The tool sense is standard in British and American English. The drink sense is informal and commonly understood, though recipes and terminology can vary.
Easily confused with screwdriver
A screwdriver is designed to turn screws, while a spanner is designed to turn nuts and bolts.