wrench

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C1 — Advanced

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a sharp strain on muscles or ligaments
  2. noun a jerky pulling movement
  3. noun a hand tool that is used to hold or twist a nut or bolt

Etymology

From Middle English wrench, from Old English wrenċ, from Proto-Germanic *wrankiz, from Proto-Indo-European *wreng- (“to turn”). Compare German Rank (“plot, intrigue”).

In classic literature

Synonyms

twist, pull

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