knives

knives · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    Plural of knife; cutting instruments with sharp blades and handles.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    the knives are out — people are eager to criticize or harm someone
  • •
    long knives — ruthless or treacherous people

Related words

See also: blade, cutlery, knife
Synonyms: blades, cutters

Etymology

From Old English cnif with irregular plural formation (f becomes v before -es), similar to wife/wives and life/lives.