pocketknife

noun

pock·​et·​knife ˈpä-kət-ˌnīf How to pronounce pocketknife (audio)
Synonyms of pocketknifenext
: a knife that has one or more blades that fold into the handle and that can be carried in the pocket

Examples of pocketknife 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.
Cadets in the video described stabbing him with their pocketknives during a desperate struggle for the gun. Phil Helsel, NBC news, 10 Apr. 2026 Police say Mendez-Marin was found with blood on his clothes and a bloody pocketknife at the scene. Stepheny Price , Ashley Papa , Elizabeth Pritchett, FOXNews.com, 8 Apr. 2026 For carry-on bags, avoid bringing full-size shampoo or other liquids, large gels or aerosols and items like pocketknives in carry-on bags. ABC News, 14 Feb. 2026 For carry-on bags, avoid bringing full-size shampoo or other liquids, large gels or aerosols and items like pocketknives. Rio Yamat, Los Angeles Times, 14 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pocketknife

Word History

First Known Use

1676, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pocketknife was in 1676

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Cite this Entry

“Pocketknife.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pocketknife. Accessed 22 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

pocketknife

noun
pock·​et·​knife ˈpäk-ət-ˌnīf How to pronounce pocketknife (audio)
: a knife that has one or more blades that fold into the handle and that can be carried in the pocket

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