razor

[rey-zer]

noun

1. a sharp-edged instrument used especially for shaving the face or trimming the hair.

2. an electrically powered instrument used for the same purpose.

verb (used with object)

1. to shave, cut, or remove with or as if with a razor.

razor

/ ˈreɪzə /

noun

1. a sharp implement used esp by men for shaving the face

2. in an acute dilemma

verb

1. (tr) to cut or shave with a razor

Other Word Forms

• razorless adjective
• unrazored adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of razor¹

1250–1300; Middle English rasour < Old French rasor, equivalent to ras ( er ) to raze + -or -or ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of razor¹

C13: from Old French raseor , from raser to shave; see _raze

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. on the razor's edge, in a difficult or precarious position.

see sharp as a tack (razor).

Example Sentences

It looks like a spaceship has landed on the North Yorkshire moors, surrounded by sheep, an electrified perimeter fence and razor wire.

From BBC

According to some reports, there may be tell-tale symptoms with the latest ones - a hoarse voice or a "razor blade" sore throat.

From BBC

They walk in straight lines with hands behind their back to the razor wire-enclosed “yard.”

From Los Angeles Times

Rolls of razor wire now run through the middle of the village Cambodia calls Chouk Chey, and on through fields of sugar cane.

From BBC

Jones said her hair is still recovering after the actor “razored” it for the role.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• blade 
• knife 
• shaver