scalpel


scal·pel

noun \ˈskal-pəl also skal-ˈpel\

Definition of SCALPEL

: a small straight thin-bladed knife used especially in surgery

Origin of SCALPEL

Latin scalpellus, scalpellum, diminutive of scalper, scalprum chisel, knife, from scalpere to scratch, carve
First Known Use: 1742

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: scalpellar
Previous Word in the Dictionary: scalp dance
All Words Near: scalpel

Seen & Heard

What made you want to look up scalpel? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Test Your Vocabulary

Take Our 10-Question Quiz

Name That Thing

Take our visual vocab quiz

Test Your Knowledge »

True or False?

A quick quiz about stuff worth knowing

Take It Now »

Join Us on FB & Twitter

Get the Word of the Day and More

Facebook | Twitter

Get Our Free Apps

Voice Search, Favorites,
Word of the Day, and More

iPhone | iPad | Android | More