hammer out

In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To flatten and shape (metal) by hammering.

Where it’s used: Used American English

Examples

A smith hammers out iron on an anvil.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

To create (something) by hammering metal; to repair (something made of metal that has become bent or dented) by hammering.

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To remove (something tightly in place) by hammering.

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “hammer out” mean?

To flatten and shape (metal) by hammering.

Is “hammer out” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.