snow thrower: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowColloquial, Technical
Quick answer
What does “snow thrower” mean?
A machine, either handheld or wheeled, used to remove snow by mechanically throwing it away from an area.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A machine, either handheld or wheeled, used to remove snow by mechanically throwing it away from an area.
A mechanical device, powered by an engine or motor, that collects snow from a surface and propels it in a specific direction through a rotating auger and a discharge chute.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, the device is overwhelmingly called a 'snow blower'. 'Snow thrower' is understood but rarely used in the UK. In American English, 'snow thrower' is common, often used interchangeably with 'snow blower', though 'snow blower' can imply a more powerful, two-stage machine.
Connotations
In the UK, 'snow thrower' sounds slightly American or like a direct technical translation. In the US, 'snow thrower' can sound more generic or refer to smaller, single-stage models compared to 'snow blower'.
Frequency
In the UK, 'snow blower' is the dominant term. In the US, both 'snow blower' and 'snow thrower' are used, with regional and brand preferences influencing choice.
Grammar
How to Use “snow thrower” in a Sentence
[Verb] a snow thrower (e.g., buy, start, use, repair)[Adjective] snow thrower (e.g., electric, powerful, broken)clear [Noun Phrase] with a snow thrower (e.g., the drive, the path)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “snow thrower” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He decided to snow-blow the entire car park.
American English
- I need to snow-blow the driveway before work.
adjective
British English
- The snow-blowing attachment for the tractor is very efficient.
American English
- They sell a snow-throwing attachment for that model of lawn tractor.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in retail, marketing, and manufacturing of outdoor power equipment.
Academic
Rarely used; more likely in engineering or product design contexts.
Everyday
Used in conversation among homeowners or in regions with heavy snowfall.
Technical
Used in manuals, specifications, and by mechanics for specific types of snow-clearing machinery.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “snow thrower”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “snow thrower”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “snow thrower”
- Misspelling as 'snowthrower' (should be two words or hyphenated: snow-thrower).
- Confusing 'snow thrower' and 'snow blower' without awareness of regional preferences or technical distinctions.
- Using 'snow plough' incorrectly for a walk-behind machine.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In common American usage, 'snow thrower' often refers to smaller, single-stage machines where an auger both collects and throws the snow. 'Snow blower' often refers to larger, two-stage machines where an auger collects the snow and a separate impeller throws it. However, the terms are frequently used interchangeably.
It is typically written as two separate words ('snow thrower') or hyphenated ('snow-thrower'), especially in formal writing. The single-word version 'snowthrower' is less standard.
No, snow throwers are designed for snow removal. Attempting to clear ice or paved surfaces with embedded gravel can damage the machine's auger and scraper bar. Ice should be dealt with using an ice melt product or an ice chipper/scraper.
Never, under any circumstances, put your hands near the auger or discharge chute while the machine is running, even if it seems clogged. Always use a clearing tool or stick, and ensure the engine is completely off and the spark plug is disconnected before performing any maintenance.
A machine, either handheld or wheeled, used to remove snow by mechanically throwing it away from an area.
Snow thrower is usually colloquial, technical in register.
Snow thrower: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsnəʊ ˌθrəʊ.ə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsnoʊ ˌθroʊ.ɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[None directly associated with this specific term]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine the machine does not just blow the snow, it physically THROWS it away from you. Think: 'It grabs snow and throws it.'
Conceptual Metaphor
MACHINE AS A LABOURER (e.g., 'It clears the drive for you'), WEAPON AGAINST NATURE (e.g., 'battling the snowdrifts with my snow thrower').
Practice
Quiz
Which term is most commonly used in British English for a machine that clears snow by throwing it?