Definition

A small knife that can be folded and is often carried in a pocket.

Example

He used his penknife to open the package.

Conversation

Do you have your penknife with you today?

Yeah, I always carry it in my pocket for emergencies.

That's smart! I should get a penknife too, just in case.

You definitely should; it's really handy for all sorts of things.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Penknife → The word is formed from "pen" (from Latin *penna*, meaning feather) and "knife" (from Old English *cniif*, meaning a cutting instrument). Originally, a penknife referred to a small knife used for trimming quills, which were made from feathers, for writing.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'feather' ('pen') being trimmed with a 'cutting tool' ('knife') — that's how a penknife is used to prepare quills for writing.

Visually Confused Words