rat-tail file

noun

1. a long, narrow file having a circular cross section.

Word History and Origins

Origin of rat-tail file¹

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

The rat-tail file he was carrying was driven into his side, making a wound from which he died in two hours.

From Project Gutenberg

It was laconic, but it sounded like a rat-tail file on steel.

From Project Gutenberg

It is filed out with a rat-tail file until it is large enough to admit the tube very tightly.

From Project Gutenberg

These consist in lateral cuts having a depth of an eighth of an inch and are best made with a rat tail file.

From Project Gutenberg

The round or rat tail file is necessary in filing out small holes, the half round for finishing the interior of large ones.

From Project Gutenberg