Screwdriver and Screwdriver - What is the Difference?

Among craftsmen and laypeople, there is ongoing debate about the correct name for this tool. In this article, you will learn which designation is correct and where the two different names originate from. This is more of a generational discussion, as older craftsmen, in particular, still know and use the term screwdriver. Here we explain what is actually correct and why there are different terms.

A screwdriver is a mechanical tool consisting of a handle and a blade, used to insert or remove screws in materials, tighten or loosen them, and secure them against twisting. Although standards like DIN or ÖNORM only use the term screwdriver, the term screwdriver is still widely used.

In the case of "screwdriver," it is a general and understandable word in common language. When the screwdriver was invented, wood screws were typically screwed into wood. Back then, this was referred to as "screwing" or "tightening" and is still very common today, especially in woodworking. However, when discussing the difference between a screwdriver and a screwdriver, the term "pull out" is often mistakenly associated with "removing something," which was never the intention. Later, in the 20th century, when it became common to screw screws into masonry or steel, the term "screwdriver" became more relevant; after all, it is not a pulling tool but a turning tool.

If you also look into common standards and specifications, only the term screwdriver is found. In fact, the screwdriver was declared the sole and correct designation by the DIN standards in the second half of the last century. Even though the word "screwdriver" is technically correct, one wonders whether everyday language must always necessarily follow technical language. Technical definitions serve to achieve the highest level of precision in formulation in a technical context.

There is no physical difference between screwdrivers and screwdrivers, as they are exactly the same tool. The debate is more about correct language usage and arises from the different expressions of generations.

If you now know exactly what you need, nothing stands in the way of your purchase. In our shop, you will find many renowned manufacturers of hand tools such as screwdrivers. These include manufacturers like WERA, WIHA, FORMAT and many others.

The Screwdriver Set Kraftform XXL from WERA is ideal for initial purchase. This set contains many screwdrivers with different sizes and applications.