tool
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Register: slang
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
Dude, he's not your friend. He's just tooling you.
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).
Common questions
What does “tool” mean?
To put down another person (possibly in a subtle, hidden way), and in that way to use him or her to meet a goal.
Is “tool” formal or informal?
tool is generally slang.