cookie cutter

¹ American  

noun

1. a device, usually of metal, for cutting shaped forms, as circles or stars, for cookies from dough that has been rolled flat.

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cookie-cutter ² American  

[kook-ee-kuht-er] / ˈkʊk iˌkʌt ər /

adjective

1. having the same configuration or look as many others of a given kind; identical.

   rows of cookie-cutter houses.

2. lacking individuality; stereotyped or formulaic.

   a novel filled with cookie-cutter characters.

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cookie-cutter British  

noun

1. a shape with a sharp edge for cutting individual biscuits from a sheet of dough

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adjective

1. resembling many others of the same kind

   a row of cookie-cutter houses

Etymology

Origin of cookie cutter

An Americanism dating back to 1900–05

Example Sentences

Based on a traditional Norwegian treat, the set of 10 graduated cookie cutters makes creating a charming yuletide tree as simple as roll, bake, stack.

From The Wall Street Journal

If parents want to do something special, Russell recommends quickly using a cookie cutter on a sandwich or adding a sticker alongside the snacks.

From Los Angeles Times

“You don’t know where any of the stuff is, so someone has to teach you... where the cookie cutters are, and where the box of sugar is,” she says, laughing.

From Los Angeles Times

“They want their home back not some cookie cutter home that will devalue the neighborhood.”

From Los Angeles Times

“They were so cookie cutter — you’re trying to hold that platform liable.”

From Los Angeles Times