Pronunciation: [hˈandsɔːz] (IPA) 
The word "handsaws" is spelled with a silent "d" at the end, despite the fact that "saw" is pronounced with a "d" sound. This is because "saw" is actually a past tense verb form and its pronunciation has evolved over time. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word would be written as /ˈhændsɔːz/, with the stressed syllable being the first one, and the vowel sound represented by the symbol "ɔː" being the same as in "dog" or "caught."
Handsaws are manual cutting tools that are designed to be operated by hand, typically used for woodworking and carpentry purposes. They consist of a long, thin blade with teeth along one edge and a handle at one end. The blade is usually made of high-quality steel, with teeth that are hardened to ensure durability and sharpness.
Handsaws come in various types, including rip saws, crosscut saws, and panel saws, each designed for specific cutting tasks. Rip saws have coarse teeth that are used to cut along the grain of wood, while crosscut saws have finer teeth that are ideal for cutting across the grain. Panel saws are smaller and more lightweight, suitable for cutting thin materials like plywood or paneling.
These tools are employed by aligning the blade with the desired cutting line and applying force on the handle to move the saw back and forth. The teeth of the saw make contact with the material, gradually cutting through it with each stroke. The design of handsaws allows for precision and controlled cutting, making them indispensable for tasks such as cutting lumber, trimming boards, or creating accurate joinery.
Handsaws have been used for centuries by craftsmen and professionals alike, and they continue to be essential tools in woodworking, construction, and other related industries. With their versatility, durability, and manual operation, handsaws offer users the ability to create precise and clean cuts in various materials, making them an indispensable part of any woodworking toolkit.
The word "handsaw" originated from the Middle English term "hond-saghe", which was a combination of "hond" meaning "hand" and "saghe" which meant "saw". The Middle English term can be traced back to the Old English word "hond-seġe", with "seġe" also meaning "saw". Ultimately, the Old English term can be linked to the Proto-Germanic word "handusagō", which meant "hand-saw".
