Explore M-W
First Known Use of bevel
1609
bevel
Definition of bevel
1 : an instrument consisting of two rules or arms jointed together and opening to any angle for drawing angles or adjusting surfaces to be cut at an angle
2a : the angle that one surface or line makes with another when they are not at right anglesb : the slant of such a surface or linec : the surface or line at such a slant or inclination
3 : the part of printing type extending from face to shoulder
Examples of bevel in a Sentence
the bevel of the mirror
Recent Examples of bevel from the Web
-
Because of the shape of the seat, most of the slats require bevels on one or both edges.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'bevel.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Illustration of bevel
Origin and Etymology of bevel
Middle French *bevel, from Old French *baivel, from baïf with open mouth, from baer to yawn — more at abeyance
bevel
Definition of bevel
beveled
orbevelled
;beveling
orbevelling
\ˈbev-liŋ, ˈbe-və-\Examples of bevel in a Sentence
a tool that is used for beveling wood
Recent Examples of bevel from the Web
-
For the flipped effect, follow up a round-brush blowout by smoothing strands with a flat iron, slightly beveling the ends, says Atkin.
-
The superstructure calls for a white concrete finish, and its underside is shaped or beveled for a lighter look.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'bevel.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
First Known Use of bevel
1678
BEVEL Defined for English Language Learners
bevel
Definition of bevel for English Language Learners
-
: a slanted surface or edge on a piece of wood, glass, etc.
-
: a tool that is used to make a slanted surface or edge on a piece of wood, glass, etc.
bevel
Definition of bevel for English Language Learners
-
: to cut or shape (a surface or edge) at an angle or slant
BEVEL Defined for Kids
Definition of bevel for Students
: a slant or slope of one surface or line against another
History for bevel
At first the word bevel was used for a certain kind of angle. This was the angle formed by two surfaces that are not at right angles. Look at the opening of such an angle. You may be able to imagine that it looks like an open mouth. The English word bevel came from an Old French word baïf that meant “with open mouth.” This word was formed from the Old French verb baer, “to yawn.”
Definition of bevel for Students
beveled
orbevelled
;beveling
orbevelling
: to cut or shape (an edge or surface) at an angle or slant
Learn More about bevel
-
See words that rhyme with bevel Spanish Central: Translation of bevel Nglish: Translation of bevel for Spanish speakers
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up bevel? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!