butter knife

noun

1. a small knife with a dull blade, for cutting, serving, or spreading butter.

Word History and Origins

Origin of butter knife¹

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

Use the butter-knife, salt-spoon, and sugar-tongs as scrupulously when alone, as if a room full of people were watching you.

From Project Gutenberg

"It's my practice to mix the bitter with the sweet," said the doctor, waving the butter-knife.

From Project Gutenberg

My mother went to housekeeping with six teaspoons and a butter-knife, and thought herself rich.

From Project Gutenberg

His “Merry Christmas” to Mrs. Purtett was followed up by a ravished kiss and the gift of a silver butter-knife.

From Project Gutenberg

Lieutenant Defoe gestured expressively with a butter knife in one hand and a piece of roll in the other.

From Project Gutenberg