razor

[ rey-zer ]

noun

1. a sharp-edged instrument used especially for shaving the face or trimming the hair.
2. an electrically powered instrument used for the same purpose.

verb (used with object)

1. to shave, cut, or remove with or as if with a razor.

razor

/ ˈreɪzə /

noun

1. a sharp implement used esp by men for shaving the face
2. on a razor's edge or on a razor-edge
   in an acute dilemma

verb

1. tr to cut or shave with a razor

Other Words From

• razor·less adjective
• un·razored adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of razor¹

1250–1300; Middle English rasour < Old French rasor, equivalent to ras ( er ) to raze + -or -or ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of razor¹

C13: from Old French raseor , from raser to shave; see raze

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. on the razor's edge, in a difficult or precarious position.

More idioms and phrases containing razor

see sharp as a tack (razor) .

Example Sentences

“People don’t want to be told that crime rates are low when razor blades and hair spray have to be locked up,” Republican strategist Rob Stutzman says.

From Los Angeles Times

Back at the wall, the smuggler placed a ladder on the Iranian side, and cut the razor wire at the top to create a path for migrants.

From BBC

It cited examples such as a three-piece razor set and an "elegant necklace, bracelet, and earring set" available at just under three dollars each in a press release about the launch.

From BBC

The future of the seat hinged on a razor thin margin in the days after election day.

From Los Angeles Times

“They didn’t even have basic supplies, like the scissors you would use to cut an umbilical cord. They were using a razor blade, you know?”

From Salon

Related Words

• blade
• knife
• shaver