scalpel
word
/ˈskæɫpəɫ/
SKAL-puhl
/skˈælpəl/
SKAL-puhl
Definition
A scalpel is a very sharp, small knife used by doctors or surgeons to make precise cuts during operations or medical procedures.
Usage & Nuances
'Scalpel' is a formal, technical term mainly used in medical contexts. It refers specifically to a surgical tool, not for general-purpose knives. Common collocation: 'surgical scalpel'. Not used for non-medical cutting instruments.
Spanish: bisturíPortuguese (BR): bisturiPortuguese (PT): bisturiChinese (Simplified): 手术刀Chinese (Traditional): 手術刀Hindi: सर्जिकल ब्लेडArabic: مشرطBengali: স্ক্যালপেলRussian: скальпельJapanese: メスVietnamese: dao mổKorean: 메스Turkish: neşterUrdu: اسکالپیلIndonesian: pisau bedah
Example Sentences
The doctor used a scalpel to make a small cut.
basic
A scalpel must be very sharp to work well.
basic
The nurse handed the scalpel to the surgeon.
basic
Be careful—using a scalpel takes practice and a steady hand.
natural
During the operation, only the surgeon touched the scalpel.
natural
He joked he was so precise with a scalpel he could sign his name.
natural