cookie cutter

¹

noun

1. a device, usually of metal, for cutting shaped forms, as circles or stars, for cookies from dough that has been rolled flat.

cookie-cutter

²

[ kook-ee-kuht-er ]

adjective

1. having the same configuration or look as many others of a given kind; identical:

   rows of cookie-cutter houses.

2. lacking individuality; stereotyped or formulaic:

   a novel filled with cookie-cutter characters.

cookie-cutter

noun

1. a shape with a sharp edge for cutting individual biscuits from a sheet of dough

adjective

1. resembling many others of the same kind

   a row of cookie-cutter houses

Word History and Origins

Origin of cookie cutter¹

An Americanism dating back to 1900–05

Example Sentences

The problem was a bit like predicting what direction a small circle of sheetcake is pointing, before twisting a round cookie cutter in to pull out a piece.

From Science Daily

Unlike many of the cookie cutter five-over-one boxes you see throughout the city, the building is unique.

From Seattle Times

Most of the parenting classes that his clients are required to complete are assigned with a “cookie cutter” approach, he said, and are “a waste of taxpayer dollars.”

From Los Angeles Times

In July, cookie cutters shaped like lipsticks and convertible cars picked up steam, thanks to Barbie mania.

From New York Times

With a 3-inch biscuit or cookie cutter, cut as many rounds as you can, minimizing the space between each round.

From Washington Times