Phrase guide

spanner in the works

noun · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

noun

Meaning 1

Something that disrupts smooth operation or functioning.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: UK, idiomatic

Examples

  • The kids' involvement was unfortunately more of a spanner in the works than a helpful contribution toward Daddy's progress on the task, but he gamely pretended to be thankful anyway.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: wrench in the works, monkey wrench in the works

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.