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center bit

center bit

7.5
A small tool with a sharp point that guides a drill to make straight holes in wood
  • noun
  • /ˈsɛntər bɪt/
  • Specialized
translation icon : broca de centro
  • The carpenter used a center bit to create precise holes in the wooden beams.

Examples

  • For the project, I decided to buy a new center bit suitable for drilling into hardwood.

  • Using a center bit allows for more accurate drilling when making furniture.

  • So I'm going to start with this center bit here.

Synonyms

spade bit
vscenter bit
  • Specialized
7.3

A flat drill bit with a pointed center and two sharp sides for making large holes in wood

has a sharp central guide and more substantial body, not a flat thin shape

Surface Forms

center bit singular
center bits plural
centre bits plural
centre bit singular

Morphology

center + bit

The meaning is directly built from 'center' (middle point) + 'bit' (the cutting part of a drill): a drill bit with a central point for guidance follows straightforward noun-noun compounding. Although somewhat technical, the sense is compositional and a B1 learner who knows both words can reasonably infer this function.

Etymology

Center bit comes from its shape: a small sharp center point that finds the right spot and a cutting bit that makes the hole. That pointed center keeps the drill steady, so the tool is used to 'guide' the drill and make straight, accurate holes.