noun
Freq #199457
Meanings
-
1
noun
a screwdriver or similar device for turning screws; now chiefly dated
He drew a turnscrew from the old tool chest and loosened the brass fitting.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
Etymology
A transparent compound of turn + screw, named for the tool's action. Turnscrew was formerly a common name for a screwdriver and survives in dated usage and some specialist trades.