hammer
UK[ˈhæmə(r)]US[ˈhæmər]
n
A tool with a heavy metal head mounted at right angles at the end of a handle, used for jobs such as breaking things and driving in nails.
n
A part of a device that hits another part to make a noise, such as in a piano or a gun.
v
To hit something hard with a hammer or a similar object.
v
To criticize someone or something severely.
Etymology
The word 'hammer' originates from the Old English 'hamor', which is related to the Old Norse 'hamarr', meaning both 'hammer' and 'stone' or 'crag'. This dual meaning points to a Proto-Germanic root 'hamaraz', likely denoting a tool with a stone head. The term is further traceable to a Proto-Indo-European root 'h₂eḱmōn', meaning 'stone' or 'sharp stone', which also gave rise to words for 'anvil' in some languages. The semantic journey from a general term for a stone tool to the specific modern implement illustrates the evolution of technology and language from primitive stone tools to crafted metal ones.
Analysis
The word 'hammer' is a simplex word of Germanic origin. It does not break down into smaller, meaningful morphemes within modern English spelling.
Examples
He used a hammer to drive the nail into the wall.
The hammer of the pistol fell with a sharp click.
The committee will hammer out the final details of the agreement next week.