spanner: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2neutral to technical
Quick answer
What does “spanner” mean?
A hand tool with fixed or adjustable jaws for gripping and turning nuts, bolts, or other fasteners.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A hand tool with fixed or adjustable jaws for gripping and turning nuts, bolts, or other fasteners.
In computing and engineering, a tool or piece of software for performing a specific technical function, such as debugging or configuration. Figuratively, something that disrupts or complicates plans ('to throw a spanner in the works').
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'spanner' is the default term for the tool. In American English, 'wrench' is used. 'Spanner' is understood but may sound technical or British. The adjustable type is often called an 'adjustable spanner' (UK) or 'adjustable wrench' (US).
Connotations
In British English, neutral/technical. In American English, can sound quaint, British, or deliberately technical. The idiom 'throw a spanner in the works' is used in both varieties but is more common in UK English.
Frequency
Very high frequency in UK English for the tool. Lower frequency in US English, where it's often replaced by 'wrench'.
Grammar
How to Use “spanner” in a Sentence
[subject] throws a spanner in the works[subject] uses a spanner to tighten [object][subject] is a spanner for [purpose]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “spanner” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- Pass me the 10mm spanner, please.
- He's lost his adjustable spanner.
- The sudden rain was a real spanner in the works for our picnic.
American English
- The mechanic reached for a spanner, though most here would call it a wrench.
- The software includes a diagnostic spanner for network issues.
- It's a British-made spanner set.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used metaphorically: 'The new regulations threw a spanner in the works of our expansion plans.'
Academic
Rare in most disciplines except engineering, where it is a standard term for a tool.
Everyday
Common in UK English for household and DIY tasks: 'I need a spanner to fix the bike.'
Technical
Standard in mechanical engineering, automotive repair, and manufacturing contexts worldwide.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “spanner”
- Using 'spanner' in US English where 'wrench' is expected, leading to confusion. Mispronouncing as /ˈspeɪnər/. Confusing 'spanner' with 'wrench' types (e.g., calling a 'pipe wrench' a 'pipe spanner' is less common).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but it is less common and often perceived as a British or technical term. The default word in American English is 'wrench'.
It means to cause a problem or complication that disrupts a plan or process.
A spanner/wrench with a movable jaw that can fit nuts and bolts of different sizes.
No, 'spanner' is solely a noun in standard modern English.
A hand tool with fixed or adjustable jaws for gripping and turning nuts, bolts, or other fasteners.
Spanner is usually neutral to technical in register.
Spanner: in British English it is pronounced /ˈspænə(r)/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈspænər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “throw a spanner in the works (to cause a problem that prevents something from happening as planned)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a SPAN-ner SPANNING the sides of a nut to grip it. Or, a clumsy planner throws a SPANNER into their own PLANS.
Conceptual Metaphor
TOOLS ARE AGENTS OF CONTROL (a spanner controls/turns a fastener). PROBLEMS ARE PHYSICAL OBSTRUCTIONS (a spanner thrown into machinery).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary American English equivalent for the hand tool 'spanner'?