Zollstock

folding ruler

noun TSOL-shtok Rare

Also means

carpenter's rule

Usage Note

Zollstock is the hinged, two-metre folding ruler universally used by German tradespeople; the name dates from when it measured in Zoll (inches), though today's versions are metric.

Examples

"Jeder Handwerker trägt einen Zollstock in der Hosentasche."

Natural Translation

Every tradesperson carries a folding ruler in their trouser pocket.

Literal Translation

Every tradesperson carries a folding-ruler in the trouser-pocket.

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