screw
Pronunciation: [skruː]
Context: "construction"
(noun) a small metal piece that has a spiral shape. It is used to hold things together, like when you build furniture. You turn it with a tool to make it tight.
Example
I used a screw to put the shelf together securely.
Example
I lost the screw, so I couldn't finish building the chair.
Example
Do you have a screw I can borrow for this project?
Context: "construction"
(verb) to turn a screw into something to fasten it. It’s like twisting the screw with a screwdriver so that it holds two pieces together.
Example
She screws the lightbulb into the socket carefully.
Example
He didn’t screw the door handle in tightly, so it came loose.
Example
Can you help me screw this piece into place?
Context: "manipulation"
(verb) to twist or turn something tightly. Sometimes we use it when we're doing something that makes it more difficult or unfair for someone.
Example
They always screw the lid on tight to keep the food fresh.
Example
I don't want to screw things up by making a mistake during the game.
Example
Did he screw the cap back on after using the glue?
Context: "colloquial"
(noun) a slang term for a person who is dishonest or a jerk. It’s not a nice way to talk about someone who has done something bad.
Example
I was surprised when he turned out to be a nice guy instead of a screw.
Example
It was unfair of her to call him a screw when he was just trying to help.
Example
Why would someone call him a screw for making a mistake?