hammer - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
hammer Word Meanings
- a heavy metal tool used for pounding or hitting
- to hit something with a hammer
- to criticize severely
hammer Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
hammer Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈhæmə/
US
/ˈhæmər/
hammer Word Etymology
hamer = hammer + -er (tool) from Old English hamor, derived from Proto-Germanic *hamaraz. Visualize a blacksmith striking a metal piece repeatedly, shaping it with a hammer.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Hammer is a heavy metal tool used for pounding, driving nails, shaping metal, and striking other objects. As a noun it refers to the tool itself, often with a handle and head, used in carpentry, construction, and blacksmithing. As a verb, to hammer can mean to strike something repeatedly with a hammer, or figuratively to push or force something hard, as in hammering out a plan or hammering a point home. In slang, hammer away means to work persistently, while hammering someone can mean criticizing them severely. The word is common in idioms such as hammer out, hammer in, and hammer home, conveying persistence, force, or emphasis.
Usage Reminders
- Remember hammer has both noun and verb senses.
- Learn common collocations: hammer a nail, hammer out a deal, hammer home a point.
- Distinguish literal hammering from figurative uses.
- Pronounce as HAM-er, with the second syllable stressed.
- Be careful with phrasal verbs: hammer down, hammer away, hammer in.
Common Misconceptions
- Hammer is only a tool; it can also be a verb meaning to strike or to emphasize a point.
- Do not assume hammering always means physical beating; many phrases are figurative.
- Hammer out a deal is about negotiating to reach an agreement, not forcing it violently.
- Hammer away usually means persistent effort, not stopping abruptly.
- Hammer home a point is about clear delivery and emphasis, not just repetition.
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, hammer as a noun is the physical tool, while as a verb it can mean both literal striking and strong emphasis; learners should separate literal tool use from idioms like hammer out a deal or hammer home a point.
Learning Tips
- Study common collocations with hammer (nail, nails; out a deal; home a point).
- Practice both senses by writing sentences using literal and figurative meanings.
- Listen for idioms in conversation or media to distinguish meaning from context.
- Record pronunciation and compare with native speech.
- Create flashcards for phrasal verbs and their nuances.
- Review examples where hammering is positive (persistence) vs negative (criticism).
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'hammer'?
A.A type of bird
B.A tool used for hitting nails
C.A piece of jewelry
D.A type of fruit
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'hammer' used correctly?
A.She sang a beautiful song with a hammer voice.
B.My favorite color is hammer.
C.The cat jumped over the hammer.
D.He used a hammer to build a shelf.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'hammer'?
A.Mallet
B.Wrench
C.Screwdriver
D.Chisel
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'hammer'?
A.Gentle
B.Quiet
C.Soft
D.Peaceful
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you use the word 'hammer'?
A.Cooking utensil
B.Construction site
C.Art gallery
D.Library
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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