utility knife

[ yoo-til-i-tee nahyf ]

noun

, plural u·til·i·ty knives [yoo-, til, -i-tee nahyvz]

1. any of various knives, often with a retractable, replaceable razorlike blade, used for a variety of cutting, scraping, or scoring work:

   The crafts department sells a fully equipped tool kit, complete with all the sizes of utility knives that you’re looking for.

Word History and Origins

Origin of utility knife¹

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

Calfo said there is no evidence that Sarey, who was 26 years old and homeless, and suffered from challenges with his mental health and substance use, threatened the officer or posed a threat to him, since Nelson never lost control of his gun and a folding utility knife that came off his vest was recovered, unopened, by a witness.

From Seattle Times

The prosecution said Ms Beal had purchased a forged handle utility knife in the days before the alleged murder and also said she was in possession of a chisel and cable ties.

From BBC

Keep a box with these essential basics: a tape measure, claw hammer, utility knife, level, crescent wrenches, hex keys, a handsaw, pliers, multiple screwdrivers and a collection of screws and nails.

From Seattle Times

A: A utility knife and a razor scraper would probably work better than a screwdriver.

From Washington Post

If there is caulk, cut through it with a utility knife, taking care not to scratch the tile.

From Washington Post