/ ˈspænə(r); NAmE / ( BrE ) (also wrench NAmE , BrE ) noun
a metal tool with a specially shaped end for holding and turning nuts and bolts (= small metal rings and pins that hold things together)
—compare adjustable spanner
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IDIOMS
- (throw) a spanner in the works
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WORD ORIGIN
late 18th cent.: from German spannen draw tight + -er .