bradawl n : an awl for making small holes for brads or small screws [syn: pricker]

English

Etymology

From brad + awl.

Pronunciation

/ˈbrædɔ:l/

Noun

1. An awl for making holes, especially in wood to take screws.

A bradawl is an awl with a beveled point. The normal use of a bradawl is to make small indentations in wood in preparation for insertion of brads or screws, although it may be used for a variety of tasks requiring a sharp point. Its handle is made either of wood or plastic. Sometimes it is used to start a hole before it is drilled.

See also

• Scratch awl
• Stitching awl