scalpel

noun

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

Examples of scalpel in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Research shows the laser does not provide better outcomes than the scalpel for a standard cataract procedure. — Phil Galewitz, CBS News, 11 Aug. 2026 This hairstyle is a real trick for naturally smoothing out the skin, without the need for injections or a scalpel. — Laura Scafati, Vanity Fair, 31 July 2026 The same scalpel or bone saw that cut a human also cleft sheep, horses, pigs and other animals in distress. — Katherine Ott, The Conversation, 2 July 2026 Truly dug into me like a scalpel. — Literary Hub, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for scalpel

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

Rhymes for scalpel

See All Rhymes for scalpel

Browse Nearby Words

scalp dance
scalpel
scalpellar
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Scalpel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scalpel. Accessed 18 Aug. 2026.

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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

More from Merriam-Webster on scalpel

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for scalpel

Nglish: Translation of scalpel for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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