paperknife
- noun
- /ˈpeɪpərˌnaɪf/
- Archaic
- He used a paperknife to neatly open the sealed envelope.
Examples
-
The antique paperknife on her desk had an ornate ivory handle.
-
I need a paperknife to open this envelope.
-
Before starting the new novel, she needed a paperknife to separate the uncut pages.
-
She uses a paperknife to cut the pages of her new book.
-
Before starting the new novel, she needed a paperknife to separate the uncut pages.
-
He used a paperknife to neatly open the sealed envelope.
-
She uses a paperknife to cut the pages of her new book.
Synonyms
13
2.1
A small tool with a thin blade for cutting envelopes
9
3.4
A small folding knife that you carry in your pocket
5
3.6
A small folding tool with a sharp blade for cutting small things
1
4.4
A small sharp knife for opening envelopes or cutting closed book pages
How Sharp
174
1.0
- Specialized
1
3.8
97
2.5
- Archaic
11
1.0
Surface Forms
Morphology
Etymology
Paperknife is made from the two simple words paper and knife, and it literally means a small knife for 'paper'. It names the tool's use: opening envelopes or cutting uncut book pages.