A metal fastener with a helical ridge, used to join objects together by being rotated into a material. noun
He used a screwdriver to tighten the screw.
The shelf was secured to the wall with screws.
A propeller, especially one used to propel a ship or aircraft. noun
The ship's screw was damaged during the storm.
The airplane's screw helps it to move forward.
A prison guard or warden (British slang). noun
The screw checked the cells every hour.
He had a reputation as a tough screw in the prison.
To fasten or tighten something with a screw. verb
She screwed the lid back onto the jar.
He screwed the pieces of wood together.
To twist or turn something in a spiral motion. verb
He screwed the cap off the bottle.
She screwed the light bulb into the socket.
To mess up or make a mistake (informal). verb
I really screwed up my presentation.
He screwed up the project by not following instructions.
To cheat or swindle someone (informal). verb
They felt they were screwed out of their money.
He got screwed on the deal.
To have sexual intercourse with someone (vulgar slang). verb
They were caught screwing in the office.
He bragged about screwing his date.