corkscrew

[ kawrk-skroo ]

noun

1. an instrument typically consisting of a metal spiral with a sharp point at one end and a transverse handle at the other, used for drawing corks from bottles.

adjective

1. resembling a corkscrew; helical; spiral.

verb (used with or without object)

1. to move in a spiral or zigzag course.

corkscrew

/ ˈkɔːkˌskruː /

noun

1. a device for drawing corks from bottles, typically consisting of a pointed metal spiral attached to a handle or screw mechanism
2. slang.
   boxing a blow that ends with a twist of the fist, esp one intended to cut the opponent
3. modifier resembling a corkscrew in shape

verb

1. to move or cause to move in a spiral or zigzag course

Word History and Origins

Origin of corkscrew¹

First recorded in 1805–15; cork + screw

Example Sentences

Campione has become known for her unique specialism in dolls, doll houses, automata, birdcages and corkscrews.

From BBC

After drying during a series of slow corkscrews, the new magazine’s edges were chopped smooth by guillotines and emerged through an opening.

From New York Times

He and others allegedly tortured the man for two hours, inserting a corkscrew into his muscles, ripping it out and placing hot chiles in the wounds.

From Seattle Times

At the state’s Enterprise Services Surplus Operations retail store, in Tumwater, Thurston County, bargain hunters could choose from knives, corkscrews, pool cues and other items that have been confiscated by airport security.

From Seattle Times

Where shorter colonies spun around an axis, like a spiraling football, longer chains would buckle and coil like a corkscrew.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• crest
• flood
• influx
• movement
• outbreak
• rash
• rush
• sign
• stream
• surge
• swell
• tide
• upsurge