spanner

noun

span·​ner ˈspa-nər 

1

chiefly British : wrench

2

: a wrench that has a hole, projection, or hook at one or both ends of the head for engaging with a corresponding device on the object that is to be turned

Illustration of spanner

• spanner 2

Examples of spanner in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

One potential spanner in the works however is Foxconn, which separately is said to have approached Nissan about acquiring a stake. —Eleanor Pringle, Fortune Asia, 19 Dec. 2024

Donald Trump’s reelection could be a spanner in the works for BMW’s Mexico strategy. —Byjames Morris, Fortune Europe, 26 Nov. 2024

Early on in the episode, his brother Charles, the man who will become king in a few short years, calls Andrew to tell him to cancel the interview, which briefly puts a spanner in the works. —Jack King, Vulture, 19 Sep. 2024

Unfortunately for the property sector, Powell’s rates strategy has thrown a significant spanner in the works. —Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 18 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

German, instrument for winding springs, from spannen to stretch; akin to Middle Dutch spannen to stretch — more at span

First Known Use

circa 1790, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing spanner

• put/throw a spanner in the works

Kids Definition

spanner

noun

span·​ner ˈspan-ər 

chiefly British

: wrench entry 2 sense 2