I. ˈtül noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English tōl; akin to Old English tawian to prepare for use — more at taw
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 tool s
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
d. often vulgar : penis
3. : one that is used or manipulated by another
4. plural : natural ability
has all the tool s to be a great pitcher
Synonyms: see implement
II. verb
Date: 1812
transitive verb
1.
a. : to cause (a vehicle) to go : drive
b. : to convey in a vehicle
2. : to shape, form, or finish with a tool ; especially : to letter or ornament (as leather or gold) by means of hand tools
3. : to equip (as a plant or industry) with tools, machines, and instruments for production
intransitive verb
1. : drive , ride
2. : to equip a plant or industry with the means (as machines, machine tools, and instruments) of production — often used with up
III. noun
Date: 1881
: a design (as on the binding of a book) made by tooling