Adjustable Wrench AW
A hand tool with an adjustable jaw used to grip and turn nuts, bolts, pipes and other fasteners of varying sizes.
Adjustable Wrench Explained
An adjustable wrench is a versatile hand tool designed with one fixed jaw and one movable jaw, allowing the opening width to be changed using a threaded adjustment mechanism, usually operated by a thumbwheel. This design enables a single tool to fit multiple sizes of nuts, bolts and fittings, making it a practical alternative to carrying a full set of fixed-size spanners.
Widely used across construction, infrastructure maintenance, mechanical engineering, plumbing and general repair work, the adjustable wrench is valued for its convenience and adaptability. It is particularly useful on site where technicians may encounter mixed fastener sizes or where tool kits need to remain compact and efficient. To use one effectively, the jaws should be tightened firmly around the fastener to minimise movement and reduce the risk of slipping or rounding edges.
Editorial Note
The Highways.Today Dictionary is maintained as an editorial reference resource for construction, infrastructure, transport and industrial technology professionals. Definitions are intended to support understanding, discovery and research, and may be expanded over time as the Dictionary evolves into a broader illustrated industry reference.