The word "knives" is one of the many examples of English spellings that can be tricky to pronounce correctly. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /naɪvz/, which means that the "k" is silent, and its sound is replaced by the "n" before the "i" in the word. The "v" and "s" are pronounced as expected. The spelling may seem counterintuitive, but it is another example of the irregularities of the English language that can cause confusion for non-native speakers.
Knives, plural noun, refers to sharp-edged cutting instruments used for various purposes. These tools are typically characterized by a long, narrow blade with one or both sides sharpened to an acute edge, attached to a handle for gripping and control during use. Knives have been an essential part of human civilization throughout history, serving a multitude of purposes ranging from cooking and food preparation to self-defense, hunting, crafting, and more.
Different types of knives exist, each serving a specific function and varying in design, size, and shape. Common examples include chef's knives, utility knives, paring knives, bread knives, carving knives, survival knives, pocket knives, and hunting knives, among others. The blade material also varies, with stainless steel being a popular choice due to its durability, corrosion resistance, and ease of maintenance.
Knives are versatile tools that require skill and caution to wield safely and effectively. They are commonly used in kitchens, restaurants, camping trips, and household tasks, making them an indispensable tool for many individuals. Knife enthusiasts and collectors also appreciate their aesthetic value and craftsmanship.
In summary, knives are handheld cutting instruments with sharp blades used for a wide range of tasks. Their design, blade type, and size vary depending on their intended use, and they have been an essential tool throughout human history.
A well-known cutting instrument, made of steel.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "knives" originated from the Middle English word "knyf" or "knif", which can be traced back to the Old Norse word "knīfr". This Old Norse term eventually evolved into the Old English word "cnīf", which later became "knif" in Middle English. The original Old Norse word "knīfr" is believed to have been borrowed from the Proto-Germanic word "*knībaz". Its exact origins beyond Proto-Germanic are uncertain.