saber saw

saber saw — noun

1. an electric power tool whose long, narrow blade moves rapidly back and forth, al

1.nounB2
Definition

an electric power tool whose long, narrow blade moves rapidly back and forth, allowing the user to cut through wood, metal, pipes, or plastic in tight spaces or at unusual angles

Example

Theo used a saber saw to cut a curved opening in the plywood.

cut + through/in + [material] + for [purpose]

A saber saw can cut through metal pipes and wooden boards with equal ease.

Common collocations
  • use a saber saw
  • operate a saber saw
  • a saber saw blade
  • cut through something with a saber saw
  • a cordless/electric saber saw
Synonyms
  • reciprocating saw

    the more formal, international term for this type of tool; 'saber saw' is the common American name

  • Sawzall

    a well-known brand name (Milwaukee) that is often used informally as a generic term for any saber saw, similar to 'Kleenex' for tissues

Grammar Patterns

a/the/someone's + saber saw

Usage Note

The term 'saber saw' is more common in American English; 'reciprocating saw' is the broader technical term used internationally.

Common Mistakes

I used a saber saw like a handsaw, pushing it in wide arcs.
I guided the saber saw forward gently and let the blade do the cutting.
A saber saw's blade moves back and forth rapidly; you do not need to apply strong pushing force or sawing motions.

Synonym discussion

Sense: noun/1

While 'saber saw,' 'reciprocating saw,' and 'Sawzall' all refer to the same handheld electric cutting tool, they differ in register and usage. 'Reciprocating saw' is the neutral, technical term used in manuals and by professionals worldwide — it describes any saw with a blade that moves back and forth. 'Saber saw' is the everyday American English name, emphasizing the sword-like blade shape. 'Sawzall' is a Milwaukee brand name that has become a genericized trademark in some regions, similar to how people say 'Xerox' for photocopying. 'Jigsaw' is a different tool — its blade moves up and down through a flat table, and it is designed for detailed curved cuts in thin materials, whereas a saber saw is handheld, more powerful, and ideal for demolition and cutting thick materials.

reciprocating sawSawzalljigsaw ↗

Common collocations

Nouns

Phrases

  • use a saber saw
  • operate a saber saw
  • cut with a saber saw

Prepositions

Etymology

FrenchEnglish

The word 'saber' comes from French 'sabre,' a type of curved cavalry sword. The compound 'saber saw' was coined in the mid-20th century when portable electric saws with long, pointed blades appeared on the market — the blade's sword-like shape reminded users of a cavalry saber.

First known use

1953

1953, in the meaning defined above