Knives are one of the most essential tools in the kitchen. There are various slang words for knives to use in daily life.
In this article, you’ll learn the common slang words for knives. These can make you sound pro in the kitchen.
Slang Words For Knives
When it comes to knives, people use many different slang words to refer to this tool. They come in various shapes, sizes, and types, each designed for specific tasks.
These terms can vary depending on the region, culture, and generation. Here are some of the most common slang words used for knives:
1. Blade:
The blade is commonly used for a knife’s sharp edge or cutting surface.
This word is used by people in the military or law enforcement, as well as knife enthusiasts and collectors.
2. Chopper:
Chopper is a slang term for a large and heavy knife. It is typically used for chopping or cutting through tougher materials such as meat or bones.
This term can also refer to a person carrying a large knife for self-defense.
3. Shiv:
Shiv is a slang term for a makeshift knife. It is often made from common household items such as toothbrushes, combs, or pencils.
This word originated in prisons. There, inmates would create these weapons to protect themselves.
4. Blade Runner:
Blade runner is a term used to describe someone carrying a knife for self-defense.
It derived its name from the 1982 science fiction film “Blade Runner”. There, the protagonist uses a blade to defend himself.
5. Switchblade:
Switchblade is a type of knife with a folding or sliding blade. It can be opened quickly by pressing a button or switch.
This term is commonly used in movies and literature. It is often associated with gangsters or criminals.
6. Stiletto:
Stiletto is a slang term for a thin and pointed knife, often used as a weapon.
This originated from the Italian word “stiletto,” meaning “small dagger.”
7. Cutty:
Cutty is a slang term for any small or sharp knife. It is usually used for discreetly carrying and concealing it.
Gang members or criminals commonly use this word.
8. Gut-hook:
Gut-hook is a term used for a type of knife with a curved and sharpened hook on the back of the blade.
This type of knife is commonly used for field dressing and skinning animals. This term originated from hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.
9. Shank:
Shank is another slang term for a makeshift knife. It is often made from everyday objects such as broken glass, razors, or scrap metal.
This word originated from prisons and is commonly used by inmates.
10. Knuckle Knife:
Knuckle knife is a term used for any knife. It has a handle designed to fit between the fingers.
This type of knife allows for a more powerful grip and stronger strikes. This type of knife is often associated with street gangs and violence.
Origin Of Slang Words For Knife:
The use of slang words for knives has evolved. Their origin can be traced back to different cultures and contexts.
In ancient times, people used descriptive terms to refer to the different types of knives.
For example, “dagger” comes from the Old Norse term “dagr,” meaning a short or sharp weapon.
Similarly, the word “blade” comes from the Old English term “blæd,” meaning a cutting edge or weapon.
As societies and cultures progressed, so did the slang words for knives.
In the 19th century, people in urban areas started using slang terms to refer to common objects, including knives.
Gangs and criminals often use these words. They use it to communicate without being understood by the authorities.
Evolution Of Slang Words For Knife:
The slang words for knives continued to evolve. They have become more prevalent in everyday language.
In the United States, during the 1920s, gangster culture popularized slang terms such as “gat,” “heater,” and “shiv” to refer to a concealed knife or gun. These words were used in movies and literature.
In the 20th century, new slang terms for knives emerged with the rise of street gangs and hip-hop culture.
Words like “blade,” “shank,” and “piece” became common among gang members. These were often used to intimidate or assert dominance.
Today, using slang words for knives can be seen in various subcultures and social circles.
Some terms such as “pocket knife” or “switchblade” have become widely accepted. Some others remain exclusive to specific groups or regions.
Types Of Knives
There are many different types of knives used for various purposes. Each type has a unique design and features, making it suitable for specific tasks.
This section will discuss some of the most common types of knives and their uses.
1. Chef’s Knife:
Also known as a cook’s knife or French knife, this versatile blade is a staple in any kitchen.
It has a curved blade that allows for easy rocking motion while chopping. It makes it perfect for cutting vegetables and meats.
2. Paring Knife:
A paring knife is a small, sharp knife. It is used for intricate tasks such as peeling fruits and vegetables or deveining shrimp.
Its small size makes it ideal for detailed work.
3. Bread Knife:
A bread knife has a serrated blade. It is perfect for slicing bread without squishing or crushing it.
It can also be used to slice other foods with tough exteriors, such as tomatoes or citrus fruits.
4. Carving Knife:
As the name suggests, this type of knife is used for carving large cuts of meat, such as roasts or turkeys.
Its long, thin blade allows for precise slicing.
5. Boning Knife:
A boning knife has a narrow and flexible blade. It is designed for removing bones from meat, poultry, and fish.
Its sharp point makes it easy to maneuver around bones and joints.
6. Utility Knife:
A utility knife is a small, all-purpose knife. It can be used for various tasks in the kitchen, such as cutting sandwiches or trimming vegetables.
It is smaller than a chef’s knife but larger than a paring knife.
7. Steak Knife:
A steak knife has a sharp, serrated blade. It is designed for cutting through cooked meats, especially tough cuts like steak.
Its pointed tip also makes it useful for piercing and spreading condiments.
8. Fillet Knife:
A fillet knife has a long, thin, flexible blade used for filleting fish or trimming meats.
Its size ranges from 6-11 inches, depending on the type of fish or meat being prepared.
9. Cleaver:
A cleaver has a thick, heavy blade that is best used for chopping through bones and tough cuts of meat.
Its size can range from 6-12 inches, and it is a staple in Chinese cuisine.
10. Santoku Knife:
Originally from Japan, the Santoku knife resembles a chef’s knife but has a straighter edge and a thinner blade.
It is primarily used for chopping, slicing, and dicing vegetables, meat, and fish. Its average size is 5-7 inches.
Each type of knife serves a specific purpose in the kitchen. It makes it important to have a variety of knives in your collection.
Whether you’re slicing or carving, having the right knife for the job can make all the difference. So, choose the right knife for each task next time you prepare a meal.
Conclusion:
Slang words for knives have been around for a long time. They are often associated with violence and illegal activities.
Some of these terms may have originated from certain groups or subcultures.
Remember that carrying a knife for self-defense is not always necessary or legal. It should be handled with care.
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