Stanley knife

noun

1. a type of knife used for carpet fitting, etc, consisting of a thick hollow metal handle with a short, very sharp, replaceable blade inserted at one end

Word History and Origins

Origin of Stanley knife¹

C19: named after F.T. Stanley , US businessman and founder of the Stanley Rule and Level Company

Example Sentences

Tatler described him as having a "jawline sharper than a Stanley knife" when he was featured alongside fellow British players Katie Boulter and Cameron Norrie last year, while he recently appeared in Vogue on his own.

From BBC

He was subject to death threats and recounted “someone putting a Stanley knife to my throat when I was going to the toilet” at the election count.

From BBC

"I think it was Stanley knife," he said.

From BBC

An indictment claims Mr Johnston was repeatedly struck on the head with a Stanley knife and a machete.

From BBC

As well as claims he was attacked with a Stanley knife, machetes and a hammer, the letters "VT", "YT" or "YLT" were also allegedly left on his head with a blowtorch.

From BBC