Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/bleɪd/

Definitions

• A flat, sharp-edged cutting instrument, typically part of a knife, sword, or similar tool.
• A single leaf or frond of grass or similar plant.
• The flat part of a propeller or fan that moves air or water to generate motion.
• The cutting part of a tool or weapon, especially one that is designed for precision cutting.

Usage Examples

• The blade of the knife was incredibly sharp and easily cut through the material.
• The grass swayed in the wind as the blades shimmered in the sunlight.
• The airplane's blades sliced through the air as it soared high above the clouds.
• The sword’s blade gleamed under the light of the campfire.

Etymology

The word "blade" comes from Old English "blæd," which originally meant "leaf" or "blade of grass." The word evolved in the 14th century to refer to the flat, sharp part of a weapon or tool, likely due to its similarity to a leaf or frond.

Synonyms

• Edge
• Knife
• Sword
• Cutting edge
• Shiv

Antonyms

• Handle
• Sheath
• Hilt
• Base

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "blade" may vary regionally. In some regions, it may be pronounced with a softer "a" sound, while in others it could have a slightly more emphasized or sharper "a" sound. For example, in Southern American English, it is sometimes pronounced as "blay-id," while in standard American English, it is typically pronounced as "blay-d." The differences are subtle and depend largely on regional accents.

Historical Usage

Historically, "blade" has been used since the 9th century in Old English to refer to a cutting edge, originally used for tools, weapons, and agricultural implements. The word was associated with swords, knives, and various sharp-edged instruments. Its use expanded to include references to the flat, green part of a plant or grass in the 14th century. Over time, "blade" became widely used in modern contexts, from sports equipment to technology.

Cultural Nuances

The blade has significant cultural and symbolic meaning in many societies. It is often associated with power, violence, and honor, particularly in cultures where swords or knives were used for battle. In the medieval period, the blade was considered a symbol of a knight's nobility and strength. In more modern times, the blade also represents precision and sharpness in fields such as technology and design. It is featured in several idioms, such as "to the blade" meaning to fight, or "edge of the blade" meaning the critical moment of a situation.

More Information

The blade is a versatile object used in many different contexts, from everyday tools and kitchen knives to weapons and machinery. Its functionality is defined by its sharp edge, which is used to cut, slice, or shear materials. Blades come in various forms, from the curved edge of a scythe to the thin precision of a surgical scalpel. Throughout history, the blade has been an essential component of weaponry, agriculture, and technology, and continues to be a symbol of craftsmanship and precision in many fields.