choil

1 9.9

A small notch at the base of a knife blade near the handle to help sharpen and improve grip

noun
/ˈkɔɪl/

Specialized

: muesca

The choil on this chef's knife makes it easier to sharpen the entire edge.

Examples

Some knife makers add a choil to improve grip and control during detailed cutting tasks.
He placed his finger on the choil for better precision while slicing vegetables.
The knife features a choil for better grip.
He noticed the choil was sharp and well-defined.
The knife features a choil that allows for better control while sharpening.
Using the choil of the blade, he carefully adjusted his grip for a safer cut.
She appreciated the choil on her knife, which made it easier to achieve a precise edge.

Surface Forms

choil singular

choils plural

Etymology

Choil names the small cutout or notch at the base of a knife blade near the handle. A helpful way to remember choil is to picture a tiny 'bite' taken out of the blade where you can rest a finger or finish sharpening the edge, which is why a choil makes grip and sharpening easier.