multi-tool

noun

mul·​ti-tool ˈməl-tē-ˌtül How to pronounce multi-tool (audio)
-ˌtī-
variants or less commonly multitool
: a compact, portable device that has blades and extensions for many tools (such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, scissors, openers, and saw blades) which can be folded into the handle
… it's good to know you have tools in the car to get you out of a pickle that your multi-tool can't …Jennifer Sherry
To my mind, the coolest feature is the multi-tool, which sports a standard blade, serrated blade, screwdriver and bottle opener.Doug Aamoth
When a multitool is all that stands between you and, say, a ten-mile walk home, you develop a certain loyalty to the most reliable one.National Geographic Adventure

Examples of multi-tool in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Modular extras include a multi-tool card ($49), a cash clip backplate ($29), and a coin tray ($29). Simon Hill, WIRED, 14 Dec. 2024 Rugged outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate this survival kit with everything from first aid supplies to multi-tools, discounted to just $50. Brittany Vanderbill, Travel + Leisure, 14 Dec. 2024 At a minimum, keep a multi-tool, a few wrenches, and a pair of pliers in it. Rabekah Henderson, Southern Living, 14 Dec. 2024 Leatherman Wave Plus Multi-Tool Leatherman Wave Plus Multi-Tool Get 20% off this versatile multi-tool for the serious adventure-seeker who needs to be ready for anything. Kasey Caminiti, USA TODAY, 4 Dec. 2024 Our Gear team’s testers haven’t been too impressed with multi-tools for screwdrivers this small. Boutayna Chokrane, WIRED, 3 Dec. 2024 Ekster also offers a ton of optional add-ons, including a tracker card and a multi-tool. Simon Hill, WIRED, 22 Nov. 2024 Cordless multi-tool: on sale for $109.42 Original price: $222.80 A cordless multi-tool can be used for cutting, sanding, scraping, grout removal and more. Christopher Murray, Fox News, 4 Oct. 2024 Argon One distinguishes itself through its unique multi-tool capabilities, which include laser engraving, milling, and 3D printing—skills that other humanoids don’t currently offer. Amir Husain, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1985, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of multi-tool was in 1985

Dictionary Entries Near multi-tool

Cite this Entry

“Multi-tool.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/multi-tool. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!