an instrument for cutting, consisting essentially of a thin, sharp-edged, metal blade fitted with a handle.

a knifelike weapon; dagger or short sword.

any blade for cutting, as in a tool or machine.

to apply a knife to; cut, stab, etc., with a knife.

to attempt to defeat or undermine in a secret or underhanded way.

to move or cleave through something with or as if with a knife

The ship knifed through the heavy seas.

under the knife

in surgery; undergoing a medical operation

The patient was under the knife for four hours.

adjective

acute , gnawing , lancinating , piercing , shooting , stabbing