Tool

Main Entry:

¹tool

Pronunciation:

\ˈtül\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English, from Old English tōl; akin to Old English tawian to prepare for use

Date:

before 12th century

1 a: a handheld device that aids in accomplishing a task b (1): the cutting or shaping part in a machine or machine tool (2): a machine for shaping metal : machine tool

2 a: something (as an instrument or apparatus) used in performing an operation or necessary in the practice of a vocation or profession <a scholar’s books are his tools> b: an element of a computer program (as a graphics application) that activates and controls a particular function <a drawing tool> c: a means to an end <a book’s cover can be a marketing tool> doften vulgar : penis

3 a: a person, typically male, who says or does things that cause you to give them a “what-are-you-even-doing-here” look. The “what-are-you-even-doing-here” look is classified by a glare in the tool’s direction and is usually accompanied by muttering of how big of a tool they are. The tool is usually someone who is unwelcome but no one has the balls to tell them to get lost. The tool is alwasys making comments that are out-of-place, out-of-line or just plain stupid. The tool is always trying too hard to fit in, and because of this, never will. b: One who lacks the mental capacity to know he is being used. A fool. A cretin. Characterized by low intelligence and/or self-steem.