monkey wrench

Definition

A wrench (spanner) with an adjustable jaw.

Etymology

Already in use, and not unfamiliar among mechanics, by 1832; see discussion and references at Monkey wrench § Etymology and history.

Example Sentences

• "Did you ever stop to think whether or not you knew how a monkey wrench should be used?"
• "With a monkey wrench on the hexagonal part of the stuffing box unscrew the stuffing box from the body of the faucet."
• "There were two monkey wrenches for that, sitting in a bucket. Lisa held one wrench and I applied the other and in a few minutes we had removed the motor head and set it on the ground."