1tool 
/ˈtu:l/ noun
plural tools /ˈtu:l/ noun [count] 1 : something (such as a hammer, saw, shovel, etc.) that you hold in your hand and use for a particular task
▪ carpentry/garden tools ▪ power tools [=tools that use electricity] ▪ I don't have the right tools to fix the engine. — see also hand tool, machine tool synonyms 1implement 2 a : something that is used to do a job or activity
▪ Words are a writer's tools.
b : something that helps to get or achieve something
▪ Words are tools for communication. ▪ A book's cover can be a great marketing tool. ▪ The Internet has become an important research tool. ▪ He has the tools [=natural skills] to be a great pitcher. 3 disapproving a : someone or something that is used or controlled by another person or group — often + of ▪ a politician who is just a tool of special interests ▪ He claims the government has become a tool of giant corporations.
b informal : a foolish person who can easily be used or tricked by others
▪ He's such a tool. 4 informal + impolite : a man's penis
▪ carpentry/garden tools ▪ power tools [=tools that use electricity] ▪ I don't have the right tools to fix the engine. — see also hand tool, machine tool synonyms 1implement
▪ Words are a writer's tools.
b : something that helps to get or achieve something
▪ Words are tools for communication. ▪ A book's cover can be a great marketing tool. ▪ The Internet has become an important research tool. ▪ He has the tools [=natural skills] to be a great pitcher.
b informal : a foolish person who can easily be used or tricked by others
▪ He's such a tool.
tools of the/your trade — see 1trade
