paring knife

American  

[pair-ing nahyf] / ˈpɛər ɪŋ ˌnaɪf /

noun

plural

paring knives

1. a short-bladed kitchen knife for paring fruits and vegetables.

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Etymology

Origin of paring knife

First recorded in 1585–95

Example Sentences

In this class, he covers the basics of forging a simple utility paring knife, including heating the grip, grinding and finishing the blade.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 19, 2025

Use a paring knife to peel fruits and vegetables, say, or devein shrimp.

From Washington Times • Jun. 9, 2023

Let the cake rest for about five minutes after removing it from the oven, then run a small paring knife around the edges.

From Salon • Mar. 16, 2023

Roast for 1 hour or until the potatoes offer no resistance when a sharp paring knife is inserted into their centers.

From Washington Post • Feb. 12, 2023

The paring knife she uses is worn so thin its blade is barely more than a crescent moon sliver.

From "Cat's Eye" by Margaret Atwood