scalpel

noun

scal·​pel ˈskal-pəl How to pronounce scalpel (audio)
also
skal-ˈpel How to pronounce scalpel (audio)
: a small straight thin-bladed knife used especially in surgery

Examples of scalpel in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Giacomo Naldi, Sinner’s physiotherapist, cut his finger while reaching into a bag that contained a scalpel used to treat calluses on Sinner’s feet. Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 28 Sep. 2024 That tool wielded by the Fed is typically described as a sledgehammer, not a scalpel. Bryan Mena, CNN, 18 Sep. 2024 Indeed, much of the album reveals Lynne with a deft scalpel, opening and tending to the wounds of a relationship’s recent end. Nancy Kruh, Peoplemag, 16 Aug. 2024 This likely would be done by using a hot air gun and a scalpel to remove the plastic key casing and expose the part of the logic board that acts as a secure element storing the cryptographic secrets. Dan Goodin, Ars Technica, 3 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for scalpel 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'scalpel.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Latin scalpellus, scalpellum, diminutive of scalper, scalprum chisel, knife, from scalpere to scratch, carve

First Known Use

1742, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of scalpel was in 1742

Dictionary Entries Near scalpel

Cite this Entry

“Scalpel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scalpel. Accessed 14 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

scalpel

noun
scal·​pel ˈskal-pəl How to pronounce scalpel (audio)
 also  skal-ˈpel
: a small straight thin-bladed knife used especially in surgery

Medical Definition

scalpel

noun
scal·​pel
ˈskal-pəl also skal-ˈpel
: a small straight thin-bladed knife used especially in surgery
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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