Definition

A type of pocketknife that has a blade which opens automatically when a button or lever is pressed.

Example

He pulled out his switchblade to cut the rope.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a switchblade?

Yeah, I have one at home; it's pretty cool.

I heard they can be really dangerous though.

That's true, but it's all about how you handle it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Switchblade → The word is formed from "switch" (from Old English *swiccan*, meaning to change or exchange) and "blade" (from Old English *blæd*, meaning a leaf or blade of grass, which later came to mean the cutting part of a tool or weapon). The term "switchblade" refers to a knife with a blade that can be opened or switched out quickly, emphasizing the changeable nature of the blade.

Memory Tip

Think of a knife that can 'change' ('switch') its blade quickly, which is why it's called a switchblade.

Visually Confused Words