If English is your second language, learning new vocabulary is an essential skill. However, for less common words, it can be challenging. That is true for household tools that (hopefully) you don’t have to use very often.
That’s why we’ve listed the names of most of the common tool names in English below. Keep reading to find out exactly what a tool is and the names of different tools broken down into categories.
10 of the most common tool names in English
You can find most of these tools in anyone’s basem*nt or garage, and if you’ve ever bought furniture that you have to build yourself (Ikea, anyone?) then you’ve probably used them too.
These common tools can be found in most homes and are often used by people doing DIY (do it yourself) work around the house. They are also used by specialist tradespeople like builders or carpenters.
- Hammer
- Screwdriver
- Mallet
- Axe
- Saw
- Scissors
- Chisel
- Pliers
- Drill
- Tape measure
Download a list of tool names for free
Electric or power tool names in English
Power tools are generally used by professionals and require training to operate. However, many people do have electric tools in their homes for DIY, for example electric drills.
- Electric drill
- Circular saw
- Soldering iron
- Electric screwdriver
- Chainsaw
- Nail gun
Hand tool names in English
Hand tools are non-electric, non-power tools that can be operated by hand. They are common in most homes. However, some hand tools are primarily used by specialists.
- Hammer
- Screwdriver
- Mallet
- Axe
- Saw
- Wrench
- Monkeywrench
- Chisel
- Pliers
- Hacksaw
- Phillips screwdriver
- Hatchet
- Plane
- Scraper
- Bradawl
- Coping saw
Fastening tools
Fastening tools are used to hold things in place or connect something, for example, two pieces of wood. They are often used in conjunction with other tools like a hammer or screwdriver.
- Wire
- Nail
- Bolt
- Screw
- Nut
- Washer
Measuring tools
Measuring tools are essential because they give different measurements when doing DIY jobs.
Gardening tool names
Gardening tools are used to complete tasks in the garden and are specifically designed for working outdoors.
- Spade
- Shovel
- Hoe
- Trowel
- Lawnmower
- Pruning shears
Miscellaneous tools or equipment
There are various tools and equipment that can be used for different tasks and by specialists in different trades. We’ve listed a selection of them here:
- Toolbox
- Paint thinner
- Anvil
- Sandpaper
- Workbench
- Sharpening stone
- Vise / clamp
- Stepladder
Conclusion
Even for native English speakers, some of these tool names are obscure and difficult to remember. However, the most common ones are worth remembering.
Set yourself a task of learning the top 10 tools in our list, and you might be surprised how quickly you use one of them. Learning new words is always a good idea, even if you are fluent in English, so test yourself, create flashcards, and you will understand plenty of English tool names in no time.
FAQs
Some examples of tools that are often used today are the hammer, the wrench (also called a spanner), saws, shovel, telephone, and the computer. Very basic things like knives, pens, and pencils are also tools. The bludgeon (a stick or rock used as a weapon to smash things) was one of the first tools made by humans.
What are examples of tools? ›
Some examples of tools that are often used today are the hammer, the wrench (also called a spanner), saws, shovel, telephone, and the computer. Very basic things like knives, pens, and pencils are also tools. The bludgeon (a stick or rock used as a weapon to smash things) was one of the first tools made by humans.
What are the names of some iron tools in your home? ›
Answer: Some names of the iron tools that we use in daily life are : Hammer, screwdriver, mallet ax(axe)....etc....
What do all hand tools have in common? ›
The common denominator of these tools is removal of material from a workpiece, usually by some form of cutting. The presence of a cutting edge is therefore characteristic of most tools, and the principal concern of toolmakers has been the pursuit and creation of improved cutting edges.
What are the names of the basic tools? ›
There is a huge range of tools and they all perform different functions, but 10 of the most commonly used are a hammer, a screwdriver, a mallet, an axe, a saw, a wrench, a chisel, pliers, a drill, and a tape measure.
What is the most popular used for tools and equipment? ›
Stainless Steel ~ is the most popular material used for tools and equipment, but is more expensive. It is easier to clean and shine and will not wear out as soon as aluminum. Choose those with copper, aluminum or laminated steel bottoms to spread heat and keep the pot from getting heat dark spots.
What are the 10 helpers names and their tools? ›
They include: Police Officer/Cuffs, Chef/Chef Hat, Teacher/Graded Paper, Doctor/Medicine, Firefighter/Extinguisher, Dentist/Dental Pick, Painter/Paint Roller, Lifeguard/Whistle, Astronaut/Rocket, Mail Carrier/Mailbox, Realtor/Sold Sign, Plumber/Plunger, Detective/Binoculars, Gardener/Garden Tool bag, Librarian/Books.
What are small tools examples? ›
Examples include wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, hammers, drills, saws, and other compact instruments used in construction, maintenance, repair, or DIY projects. Small tools play a crucial role in a wide range of industries and are essential for tasks that require precision, versatility, and manual dexterity.
What is 5 hand tools? ›
Categories of hand tools include wrenches, pliers, cutters, files, striking tools, struck or hammered tools, screwdrivers, vises, clamps, snips, hacksaws, drills, and knives. Outdoor tools such as garden forks, pruning shears, and rakes are additional forms of hand tools.
What is the most useful tool in the world? ›
The knife helps feed us, shelter us, defend us and assure our survival. It's the most reliable, useful and important tool in human history. For more on why the knife ranked number one, click here.
The basic tools everyone needs for DIY
A measuring tape, level, stud finder and screwdriver are all regularly used items for most DIY projects.
What are standard hand tools? ›
Hand-operated tools. Including wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, nippers, hammers, etc.
