an instrument such as a hammer, saw, plane, file, and the like, used in the manual arts, to facilitate mechanical operations; any instrument used by a craftsman or laborer at his work; an implement; as, the tools of a joiner, smith, shoe-maker, etc.; also, a cutter, chisel, or other part of an instrument or machine that dresses work.-a machine for cutting or shaping materials; -- also called machine tool.-hence, any instrument of use or service.-a weapon.-a person used as an instrument by another person; -- a word of reproach; as, men of intrigue have their tools, by whose agency they accomplish their purposes.-to shape, form, or finish with a tool.-to drive, as a coach.