saber saw
1
6.7
- noun
- /ˈseɪbər sɔː/
- Specialized
:
sierra de vaivén
- To create the wooden shapes, you can easily cut them with a saber saw.
- use a saber saw
- saber saw to cut
Examples
-
Before installing the sink, she grabbed her saber saw to make the required opening in the countertop.
-
Different blades can be fitted to a saber saw depending on the material being cut.
-
The carpenter used a saber saw to cut intricate shapes in the plywood.
-
The saber saw is perfect for cutting wood.
-
I bought a new saber saw for my workshop.
-
Phil used a saber saw to make precise cuts in the wood for his project.
-
When working on a DIY task, a saber saw is useful for cutting various materials.
Synonyms
3
4.9
A small electric saw with a thin blade for cutting curves and detailed shapes in wood
1
5.1
A portable power tool with a blade that moves back and forth to cut wood or metal
A handheld saw with a blade that moves back and forth to cut wood or metal
How Portable
1
2.1
- Specialized
3
4.9
- Specialized
1
6.7
5
3.5
- Specialized
5
4.2
Surface Forms
Morphology
saber + saw
The constituent 'saw' makes it clear to a learner that the phrase names a type of cutting tool, but the modifier 'saber' (which learners will typically know as a sword or may not recognize in this technical sense) does not transparently convey the specific idea of a portable power tool with a reciprocating blade. A B1 learner would likely guess it is some kind of saw but would not be able to derive the full, specific meaning without prior exposure.
Etymology
Saber saw may come from the image of a saber, a curved sword, and a saw, because its thin blade moves back and forth like a small sword cutting wood. So, the name helps you remember it is a handheld power saw with a narrow blade used 'to cut' shapes and openings.