phillips screw: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1technical, DIY/informal
Quick answer
What does “phillips screw” mean?
A type of screw with a cross-shaped (+) recess in its head, designed to be driven by a Phillips screwdriver.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A type of screw with a cross-shaped (+) recess in its head, designed to be driven by a Phillips screwdriver.
The term can also refer generically to a fastener of this design, or metonymically to the specific screwdriver head type (Phillips head). In informal contexts, it may be used to distinguish this style from others (e.g., flathead or Torx).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or use. The spelling 'Phillips' is standard in both varieties. British English may be slightly more likely to use the extended term 'crosshead screw' as a generic alternative, but 'Phillips screw' remains prevalent.
Connotations
Neutral technical term in both. Connotes modern assembly, ease of use compared to slotted screws, and is associated with mass production (automotive, electronics, furniture).
Frequency
Equally common in technical/DIY contexts in both the UK and US. Slightly higher frequency in American English due to historical origins of the Phillips Screw Company in the US.
Grammar
How to Use “phillips screw” in a Sentence
Use a [size] Phillips screwdriver to [verb] the Phillips screw.The assembly requires [number] Phillips screws.The [component] is secured with Phillips screws.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “phillips screw” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- You need to phillips-screw the bracket to the wall. (rare, non-standard)
American English
- Just phillips it in. (highly informal, jargon)
adjective
British English
- Ensure you have a Phillips-head driver.
American English
- It's a Phillips screw type, not a flathead.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in procurement, manufacturing specifications, and hardware retail.
Academic
Used in engineering, materials science, and design texts discussing fastener types.
Everyday
Common in DIY instructions, furniture assembly guides, and general hardware discussions.
Technical
The primary register. Precise term in mechanical engineering, construction, electronics repair, and carpentry.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “phillips screw”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “phillips screw”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “phillips screw”
- Misspelling as 'Philips screw' (single 'l').
- Using 'Phillips' as a common noun uncapitalised (e.g., 'a phillips screw').
- Confusing it with the similar but distinct 'Pozidriv' screw, which has additional tick marks.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The Phillips screw was invented by Henry F. Phillips, who patented the design in the 1930s. It was developed for the automotive industry to allow faster, automated assembly.
No. Pozidriv (PZ) is a later, improved design that looks similar but has additional smaller ticks between the main cross arms. Using the wrong driver can damage the screw head.
This 'cam-out' feature was intentionally designed to prevent overtightening and damage to materials on assembly lines. It can be frustrating for manual use, which is why other drive types (like Torx or Robertson) are often preferred for high-torque applications.
Ideally, yes, for proper fit and to avoid damage. In an emergency, a slightly oversized flathead screwdriver might work on a large Phillips screw, but it will likely damage the recess.
A type of screw with a cross-shaped (+) recess in its head, designed to be driven by a Phillips screwdriver.
Phillips screw is usually technical, diy/informal in register.
Phillips screw: in British English it is pronounced /ˈfɪlɪps skruː/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈfɪləps skruː/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Not applicable for this technical term.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'Phillips' as 'Fills the cross' – it fills the crossed recess in the screw head.
Conceptual Metaphor
TOOLS ARE EXTENSIONS OF THE HAND (the screwdriver becomes a precise, key-like extension to turn the screw).
Practice
Quiz
What is a key design feature of a Phillips screw?