Sledgehammer

Pronunciation: /ˈslɛdʒˌhæmər/

Definitions of sledgehammer

noun A large, heavy hammer typically used for breaking rock or driving in stakes.

Example Sentences

A1 He used a sledgehammer to break open the pinata.

A2 The construction worker swung the sledgehammer with great force.

B1 The sledgehammer was too heavy for her to lift on her own.

B2 The demolition team used a sledgehammer to knock down the old building.

C1 The sculptor carefully chiseled away at the marble with a sledgehammer.

C2 The forensic team used a sledgehammer to break through the concrete wall and uncover new evidence.

Examples of sledgehammer in a Sentence

formal The construction worker used a sledgehammer to break up the concrete.

informal I had to borrow my neighbor's sledgehammer to fix the fence.

slang I'm gonna sledgehammer this problem until it's solved.

figurative Her words felt like a sledgehammer to his heart.

Grammatical Forms of sledgehammer

• past tense: sledgehammered
• plural: sledgehammers
• comparative: more sledgehammer
• superlative: most sledgehammer
• present tense: sledgehammers
• future tense: will sledgehammer
• perfect tense: have sledgehammered
• continuous tense: is sledgehammering
• singular: sledgehammer
• positive degree: sledgehammer
• infinitive: to sledgehammer
• gerund: sledgehammering
• participle: sledgehammered

Origin and Evolution of sledgehammer

First Known Use: 0015 year

Language of Origin: English

Story behind the word: The word 'sledgehammer' originated from the combination of 'sledge' and 'hammer'. The term 'sledge' refers to a large heavy hammer or mallet used for driving stakes or breaking up rocks, while 'hammer' is a tool used for pounding or striking.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the term 'sledgehammer' has come to specifically refer to a large, heavy hammer with a long handle, typically used for demolition or construction work. The word has evolved to symbolize power, force, and impact in various contexts beyond just its literal meaning.