multi-tool

noun

mul·​ti-tool ˈməl-tē-ˌtül How to pronounce multi-tool (audio)
-ˌtī-
variants or less commonly multitool
: a compact, portable device that has blades and extensions for many tools (such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, scissors, openers, and saw blades) which can be folded into the handle
… it's good to know you have tools in the car to get you out of a pickle that your multi-tool can't …Jennifer Sherry
To my mind, the coolest feature is the multi-tool, which sports a standard blade, serrated blade, screwdriver and bottle opener.Doug Aamoth
When a multitool is all that stands between you and, say, a ten-mile walk home, you develop a certain loyalty to the most reliable one.National Geographic Adventure

Examples of multi-tool in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Argon One distinguishes itself through its unique multi-tool capabilities, which include laser engraving, milling, and 3D printing—skills that other humanoids don’t currently offer. Amir Husain, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024 Use the wand to reach window sills and curtains, and opt for the pet multi-tool to lift pet hair from stairs and upholstered furniture. Isabel Garcia, People.com, 23 Oct. 2024 Luckily, this multi-tool carabiner can do just about anything and easily clips on to your backpack for quick access. Jamie Spain, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Oct. 2024 These products include anything from minimalist card wallets to simplify your pocket, multi-tool pens and notebooks, sunglasses and accessories, or even extra comfy super-functional clothes. Jon Youshaei, Forbes, 18 Oct. 2024 Gerber Gear Dime 12-in-1 Mini Multi-tool This 12-in-1 multi-tool is compact and versatile, featuring pliers, wire cutters, a bottle opener, a knife, scissors, and more. Karthika Gupta, Travel + Leisure, 4 Oct. 2024 Beyond Big Bad, Young is among the Hollywood multi-tools who write, direct, and produce. Jordan Crucchiola, WIRED, 23 Aug. 2024 Officers reportedly seized a folding multi-tool/knife from Jean-Pierre as evidence, according to police. Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 30 Apr. 2024 Even these small steps have made the phone feel less like an additional appendage and more like the multi-tool in my bike repair kit. Aaron Gordon, WIRED, 6 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1985, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of multi-tool was in 1985

Dictionary Entries Near multi-tool

Cite this Entry

“Multi-tool.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/multi-tool. Accessed 19 Nov. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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