Bastard file – Definition & Meaning

A bastard file is a type of hand file that is used for roughing and shaping metal surfaces. It is a coarse file that is designed to remove material quickly and efficiently. The term “bastard” in this context refers to the file’s coarseness and not to any derogatory connotation.

Definitions

A bastard file is a tool that is used to shape and smooth rough metal surfaces. It is a coarse file that is designed to remove material quickly and efficiently. It is typically used in metalworking and woodworking.

Origin

The term “bastard file” originated in the 19th century and is believed to have come from the French word “bastard,” which means “of irregular or inferior quality.” The term was used to describe a file that was coarser than a second-cut file but finer than a coarse file.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a bastard file is “a coarse file that is intermediate in coarseness between a coarse file and a second-cut file.”

The Oxford English Dictionary defines a bastard file as “a file of intermediate coarseness between a coarse file and a second-cut file.”

Associations

Bastard files are commonly associated with metalworking and woodworking. They are used to shape and smooth rough metal surfaces and are often used in conjunction with other tools such as chisels and saws.

Synonyms

Some synonyms for bastard file include rough file, coarse file, and intermediate file.

Antonyms

Some antonyms for bastard file include fine file, smooth file, and second-cut file.

The same root words

The root word of bastard file is “bastard,” which means “of irregular or inferior quality.” This term is also used to describe a person who is born out of wedlock.

Example Sentences

1. I used a bastard file to smooth out the rough edges of the metal piece.
2. The carpenter used a bastard file to shape the wooden beam.
3. The metalworker recommended using a bastard file for this job because it requires a coarse file.
4. The apprentice was instructed to use a bastard file to remove the excess material from the metal piece.