The colloquial term for an angle grinder. It is an electric hand tool for cutting, grinding, and polishing materials such as metal or stone.
example
Mit der Flex hat er die alten Eisenrohre mühelos durchtrennt.
He used the angle grinder to cut through the old iron pipes effortlessly.
Usage tips
Brand name as a word
'Flex' was originally the brand name of the company Flex-Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH, which invented the angle grinder. Similar to 'Tempo' for tissues, the brand name is now used for the tool itself.
EXAMPLE
Gib mir mal die Flex, ich muss das Rohr kürzen.
Hand me the angle grinder, I need to shorten the pipe.
The verb 'flexen'
The colloquial verb 'flexen' is derived from the noun 'die Flex' (angle grinder). It means to work on something with an angle grinder, usually to cut or grind it.
EXAMPLE
Wir müssen die alten Schrauben abflexen, sie sind total verrostet.
We have to grind off the old screws with the angle grinder; they're completely rusted.
Colloquial term
'Flex' is the common term in everyday and workshop language. The official, technical term is 'Winkelschleifer' (angle grinder), but it is used less often in conversation.
EXAMPLE
Der Handwerker fragte, ob er seine Flex benutzen könne.
The tradesman asked whether he could use his angle grinder.