switchblade

[ swich-bleyd ]

noun

1. a pocketknife, the blade of which is held by a spring and can be released suddenly, as by pressing a button.

switchblade

/ ˈswɪtʃˌbleɪd /

noun

1. a knife with a retractable blade that springs out when a button is pressed

Word History and Origins

Origin of switchblade¹

First recorded in 1905–10; switch + blade

Example Sentences

Switchblades can fly towards targets under remote guidance by a human operator, or with autonomous navigation of their own.

From Popular-Science

The other two curs outa the same litter: Switchblade an' Turkey-Buzzard, over there.

From Project Gutenberg

The next day, Switchblade Joe Bonney came in to make payment on a note we were holding on him.

From Project Gutenberg

After a moment he withdrew it, and fumbled in his leg pocket withdrawing a switchblade knife.

From Project Gutenberg

The switchblade snicked back and disappeared into a side pocket of the jacket, while Ord watched it with fascinated eyes.

From Project Gutenberg

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