# thumbscrew

> English word · Noun · IPA /ˈθʌmskɹuː/

## Definitions
1. A screw that is designed to be turned with the thumb and fingers, thus requiring no screwdriver or spanner (wrench).
2. An instrument of torture used to crush the fingers.
3. A weakness that can be taken advantage of.

## Etymology
From thumb + screw.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/thumbscrew