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box end wrench

box end wrench

5.9
A wrench with a closed ring end that fits over a nut or bolt
  • noun
  • /bɑks ɛnd rɛntʃ/
  • Specialized
translation icon : llave de boca
  • A box end wrench is often preferred for tightening hexagonal nuts securely.

Examples

  • He bought a new set of box end wrenches for his garage workshop.

  • The mechanic used a box end wrench to tighten the bolt.

  • To loosen the bolt, you may need a box end wrench for better grip.

  • I need a box end wrench for this job.

  • To tighten the nut, you will need to use a box end wrench for a secure fit.

  • The mechanic reached for a box end wrench to remove the stubborn bolt.

  • He found a box end wrench in the toolbox, perfect for working on the car's engine.

Synonyms

wrench
vsbox end wrench
  • US
60 2.5

A hand tool with a shaped opening that grips and turns nuts and bolts

is more specific, naming the closed ring-shaped end used on fasteners
box wrench
vsbox end wrench
  • US
1 3.5

A tool with a closed circular end that fits over a nut or bolt to turn it

has identical meaning but uses a slightly longer name form

How Heavy-duty

pipe wrench
  • Specialized
1 3.7
wrench
  • US
60 2.5
torque wrench
  • Specialized
3 6.8
box end wrench
  • Specialized
5.9
open-end wrench
  • Specialized
4.5

Surface Forms

Morphology

box + end + wrench

This is a straightforward noun–noun compound: a 'wrench' (tool) whose 'end' is 'box'‑shaped (i.e., a closed/ring-like end that fits over a nut). The meaning is directly compositional from the known parts and follows ordinary English word‑building patterns, so a B1 learner who knows the constituents can reasonably infer the sense.

Etymology

Box end wrench is named for its closed, box-like end that fits over a nut like a small box. Because the box surrounds the nut on all sides, it can 'hold' and turn the nut firmly, so it won't slip when you tighten or loosen it.