Damascus steel

noun

Da·​mas·​cus steel də-ˈma-skəs- How to pronounce Damascus steel (audio)
: hard elastic steel ornamented with wavy patterns and used especially for sword blades

Examples of Damascus steel in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Ideal for everyday prep, the Damascus steel utility knife pairs an ultra-sharp edge with a beautiful green Pakkawood handle. Christopher Murray May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 6 Aug. 2025 Its performance is similar to Tojiro’s DP Damascus Nakiri, though its plain steel blade doesn’t feature the decoration or blade strength that comes with Damascus steel. Jesse Raub, Bon Appetit Magazine, 3 July 2025 The Shun knife is another solid option for those drawn to the look of Damascus steel blades. Alaina Chou, Bon Appetit Magazine, 14 Apr. 2025 The exception is its 30-mm (1.2-in) fold-out cutting blade, which is composed of Damascus steel. Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 5 Mar. 2025 From the 67 layers of Japanese Damascus steel to the forest green Pakkawood handle, there’s a lot to love about the knife. Christopher Murray, Fox News, 20 Feb. 2025 The blade has a wavy pattern signature to Damascus steel, and it’s connected to an equally stunning forest green wood handle. Euna Park, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Dec. 2024 It’s made from Damascus steel with a VG-MAX core, which is a much higher-carbon content steel than most bread knives. Jesse Raub, Bon Appétit, 2 Dec. 2024 With blades forged from 67 layers of Damascus steel complemented by African blackwood handles, these knives are designed equally for style and durability. Leah Muncy, Architectural Digest, 20 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1727, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Damascus steel was circa 1727

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Cite this Entry

“Damascus steel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Damascus%20steel. Accessed 20 Aug. 2025.

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