chainsaw

noun

chain·​saw ˈchān-ˌsȯ How to pronounce chainsaw (audio)
variants or less commonly chain saw
plural chainsaws also chain saws
: a portable power tool used for cutting that has sharp teeth linked together to form a continuous chain
chainsaw transitive verb
chainsawed; chainsawed also chainsawn ˈchān-ˌsȯn How to pronounce chainsaw (audio) ; chainsawing; chainsaws

Examples of chainsaw in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Smith was operating equipment, reportedly a chainsaw, that did not comply with fire prevention requirements and was capable of producing sparks, according to Cal Fire. — Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 7 Aug. 2026 Andy will cut a trail through a pine thicket, briar patch, or other thick cover in the woods using a skid steer, brush hog, or electric chainsaw. — Scott Einsmann, Outdoor Life, 5 Aug. 2026 The machine features a humanoid upper body, four-legged mobility, and modular arm mounts that can carry tools such as a chainsaw. — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 4 Aug. 2026 After one rejection too many, Grande loses her cool, grabs a chainsaw, and kills the hard-to-please audition panel. — Meg Walters, InStyle, 31 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for chainsaw

Word History

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of chainsaw was in 1946

Rhymes for chainsaw

See All Rhymes for chainsaw

Browse Nearby Words

chain rule
chainsaw
chain scale
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Chainsaw.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chainsaw. Accessed 10 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

chain saw

noun
: a portable power saw that has teeth linked together to form a continuous chain

More from Merriam-Webster on chainsaw

Nglish: Translation of chainsaw for Spanish Speakers

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