Definition

A type of screw that is designed to fit into a countersink, allowing it to sit flush with the surface, or a type of engine where the valves are located beside the piston in the engine block.

Example

The carpenter used a flathead screw to ensure the surface was smooth and even.

Conversation

Have you seen that new tool they made for carpentry?

Yeah, I heard it has a special flathead screw design.

Exactly! It's supposed to make assembly so much easier.

I can't wait to try it out; I've always struggled with flathead screws.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Flathead → The word is formed from "flat" (from Old English *flaet*, meaning level or smooth) and "head" (from Old English *heafod*, meaning the upper part of the body or the leader). The term "flathead" refers to a person or thing with a flat or level head, often used in a descriptive or colloquial sense.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'level' ('flat') on top, like a 'head' — this helps you remember that 'flathead' describes something with a flat top.

Visually Confused Words