razor

American  

[rey-zer] / ˈreɪ zər /

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.

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verb (used with object)

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

idioms

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

razor British  

/ ˈreɪzə /

noun

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

2. in an acute dilemma

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verb

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

razor More Idioms  

1. see sharp as a tack (razor).

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Other Word Forms

• razorless adjective
• unrazored adjective

Etymology

Origin of razor

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

Example Sentences

She said he had a naturally hairy upper body - and in the summer months would shave his chest, using clippers and a wet razor.

From BBC • Mar. 12, 2026

Once a symbol of cooperation, the 'Friendship Bridge' connecting the two snow-covered banks has been reinforced with rows of razor wire and anti-tank obstacles.

From Barron's • Feb. 6, 2026

In early January, the city of San Diego sued the federal government over razor wire placed on its land, saying it constitutes trespassing and disturbs sensitive habitat.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 1, 2026

However, the margin for error is, at times, razor thin.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 31, 2025

The light played blue off his dark skin, and Jam patted his cheek, stroking a thumb over the razor of his cheekbone.

From "Pet" by Akwaeke Emezi

Related Words

• blade
• knife
• shaver