putty knife

noun

: an implement with a broad flat metal blade used especially for applying putty and for scraping

Examples of putty knife 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.
It gets applied in layers with a putty knife and sweeping motions, allowing the installer to vary the surface—smoother for more modern settings or textured stuccolike finishes in more traditional ones. Lauren Bengtson, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 May 2025 The backing peeled off easily from the corners, and air bubbles were easily avoidable by applying pressure slowly and using the putty knife to smooth out the front of the wallpaper. Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 27 Mar. 2025 Scoring along the edge of the tape with a putty knife or something similar can help prevent the paint from coming up with the tape, says Hudson. Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 24 Nov. 2024 Filing the edges of your putty knife can help avoid gouges in your ceiling. Elizabeth Stamp, Architectural Digest, 2 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for putty knife

Word History

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of putty knife was in 1841

Cite this Entry

“Putty knife.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/putty%20knife. Accessed 22 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

putty knife

noun
: a tool with a broad flat metal blade used especially for applying putty and for scraping
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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