chain saw

¹

noun

1. a power saw, usually portable, having teeth set on an endless chain.

chain-saw

²

or chain·saw

[ cheyn-saw ]

verb (used with object)

1. to cut or cut down (lumber, a tree, etc.) with a chain saw.

verb (used without object)

1. to use a chain saw.

chain saw

noun

1. a motor-driven saw, usually portable, in which the cutting teeth form links in a continuous chain

Word History and Origins

Origin of chain saw¹

An Americanism dating back to 1840–50

Origin of chain saw²

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

A reporter investigating clandestine timber-harvesting in a Mexican forest encounters a masked logger brandishing a chain saw.

From Los Angeles Times

They may also carry a 25-pound hose pack, as well as hand tools like chain saws or nozzles.

From Los Angeles Times

Johnson, 21, watched Tuesday as workers used chain saws to cut into the wreckage of the trailer he called home with his grandparents and girlfriend.

From Seattle Times

There was a small “gratitude gathering” before the chain saws came out.

From Seattle Times

The cut on the tree was clean and appeared to have been made using a large heavy-duty chain saw.

From New York Times