cutlery

noun

cut·​lery ˈkət-lə-rē 

1

: the business of a cutler

2

: edged or cutting tools

specifically : implements for cutting and eating food

Examples of cutlery in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Breakfast feels wonderfully old world—dressed in silver cutlery, Toile de Jouy cups and saucers, and pretty crockery. —Rosalyn Wikeley, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Jan. 2026

Ceramic ladybugs may appear on the end of whimsical cutlery. —Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 2 Jan. 2026

This summer, our first-ever week dedicated to tabletop explored the history of French silver, stylish serveware, and why every It girl seems to gravitate toward colorful Sabre cutlery. —Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 26 Dec. 2025

By the beginning of the 19th century, however, service à la Russe, with course-by-course platings that required different cutlery for different dishes, was introduced to France from Russia. —Terry Ward, CNN Money, 20 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

cutlery

noun

cut·​lery ˈkət-lə-rē 

1

: the business of a cutler

2

: cutting tools (as knives and scissors)

3

: utensils for cutting, serving, and eating food