Allen wrench

noun

Al·​len wrench ˈa-lən- How to pronounce Allen wrench (audio)
: an L-shaped hexagonal metal bar either end of which fits the socket of a screw or bolt

Examples of Allen wrench in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web As long as the bolts are steel (most are), these magnetic inserts drop right in and prevent an Allen wrench from fitting into the bolt head. Matt Jancer, WIRED, 28 Nov. 2023 Some use Allen wrench screws, while other manufacturers use two nut-and-bolt attachment points at the four connection points to secure the clamp to the tent, sandwiched between the rack itself. Nathan Borchelt, Travel + Leisure, 22 Aug. 2023 The entire unit is assembled with an Allen wrench which is included. Hannah Jones, Country Living, 11 Aug. 2023 The Quad Lock does need to be installed via Allen wrench, so the mount is not movable once fully attached. John Thompson, Men's Health, 13 July 2023 Step One: Disassemble Locate the set screw behind your faucet's handle (or both handles), and remove it using either a screwdriver or Allen wrench. Kate McGregor, House Beautiful, 30 June 2023 Omar Rawlings/Getty The furious twists of the Allen wrench between Miles 8 and 9 cost Scaroni less than a minute, leaving her plenty of time to build back a lead that was never threatened from Mile 6. Michael Silverman, BostonGlobe.com, 17 Apr. 2023 The tool bag’s ample pockets contain plenty of room for an extra set of SAE Allen wrenches to suit. Outside Online, 8 Feb. 2023 As for assembly, the chair ships in separate pieces but comes with all of the screws, an Allen wrench, and an instruction manual. Clara McMahon, Peoplemag, 31 Mar. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'Allen wrench.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Allen Manufacturing Company, Hartford, Connecticut

First Known Use

1913, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Allen wrench was in 1913

Dictionary Entries Near Allen wrench

Cite this Entry

“Allen wrench.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Allen%20wrench. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

Allen wrench

noun
Al·​len wrench ˈal-ən- How to pronounce Allen wrench (audio)
: an L-shaped hexagonal metal bar used to turn a screw or bolt
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