hammer

Transitive VerbIntransitive Verb[C/U] Both

pl: hammerspast: hammeredpp: hammereding: hammering

The word carries a strong sense of blunt force and repetitive impact. It suggests a lack of subtlety, where the primary goal is to drive something in or break something down through sheer persistence and power. In a psychological or social context, it evokes the feeling of being overwhelmed or pressured, such as when a point is hammered home in an argument, implying a forceful insistence that leaves no room for debate.

Countable when referring to the physical tool in a toolbox. Uncountable when referring to the action of hammering as a general process.

Meanings

Noun

A tool with a heavy metal head and a handle, used for hitting nails or breaking things.

"He used a hammer to drive the nail into the wall."

Transitive Verb

[someone][something]

To hit something repeatedly with a hammer or a similar heavy object.

"The carpenter hammered the joints together."

Intransitive Verb

[doing]

To beat or strike something repeatedly, often as a rhythmic or obsessive action.

"The rain hammered against the windowpane all night."

Last Updated: May 27, 2026•Report an Error