I. ˈgimlə̇t, usu -ə̇d.+V noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English gimlet, gimelot, modification of Middle French guimbelet, probably modification of Middle Dutch wimmelkijn gimlet, from wimmel auger + -kijn -kin — more at wimble , -kin
: a small woodworking tool with a screw point, grooved shank, and cross handle for boring holes
[s]gimlet.jpg[/s]
II. adjective
: having a piercing, penetrating, or driving quality
one of the gimlet characters who, by diligence and memory … gain prizes in their school days — G.D.Brown
III. verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
: to pierce or penetrate with or as if with a gimlet
gimleting through her inquisitor with her eyes — Elizabeth Bowen
IV. noun
( -s )
Etymology: gimlet (I) ; from the fluted structure of the stem
: an Australian gum tree ( Eucalyptus salubris )
V. noun
( -s )
Etymology: probably from gimlet (I)
: a cooling drink especially of the British Pacific colonies (as Hong Kong) consisting usually of sweetened lime juice, gin, and water either carbonated or plain