chisel (B1)

noun/verb

Pronunciation: /ˈtʃɪzəl/

Definition

A tool with a sharp-edged metal blade attached to a handle, used for carving or cutting hard materials like wood, stone, or metal.

Examples

• He used a chisel to remove the old paint from the wooden door.

• The stonemason selected the right chisel for the intricate detail work.

• With a sharp chisel, you can easily shape the clay.

How to Use chisel

chisel away at (phrasal verb)

To gradually remove material or to persistently wear down or erode something (physically or metaphorically). — "The waves continuously chisel away at the coastline."

chisel out (phrasal verb)

To create a space or shape by carving. — "The sculptor chiseled out the intricate details of the bird's wings."

chisel into (prepositional phrase)

To force entry into something using a chisel. — "They had to chisel into the frozen ground to plant the tree."

chisel someone out of something (idiom)

To trick or cheat someone out of their money or possessions. — "The salesman tried to chisel her out of her savings with a bad investment deal."

Synonyms of chisel

Words with a similar meaning to chisel:

• gouge
• carve
• sculpt
• hew

Antonyms of chisel

Words with the opposite meaning to chisel:

• build
• join
• attach

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