Is there a difference between a string trimmer and a weed eater?

String trimmer is one of many of the generic names for a device used to trim and edge lawns via a flexible, fast-spinning string. Other names include “weed-whip,” “strimmer,” “weed whacker” and “weed wacker.”

The Weed Eater is the brand name of the first string trimmer. It was invented by Houston dance studio owner George Ballas and introduced in 1971. Ballas had been trying to clear brush on his 2-acre homestead. While at a car wash, the swirling brushes gave him an idea. He punched holes in a can, put a wire through it and added a motor to spin the unit. Voila! The Weed Eater was born. The invention revolutionized professional lawn care.