Definition

Noun: A small, fine-toothed handsaw with a narrow, pointed blade, designed for cutting tight curves, small holes, or intricate shapes, often starting from a drilled pilot hole.

Usage

The term "keyhole saw" is used to refer to the specific tool itself. It describes a type of saw characterized by its blade shape and primary function. * You will need a keyhole saw to cut out the opening for the electrical outlet in this thin panel. * The carpenter used a keyhole saw to make the intricate cut in the wood.

Advanced Usage

• "to use a keyhole saw": This phrase describes the action of employing this specific tool for a cutting task.
  • To create the opening, you must first drill a starter hole and then use a keyhole saw to follow the outline.

Variants and Related Words

• Compass Saw (Noun): A similar handsaw with a slightly wider and often coarser blade than a keyhole saw, also used for cutting curves but typically of a larger radius. The reference context notes they are similar.
• Pad Saw (Noun): Another term sometimes used interchangeably with keyhole saw, especially when the blade is mounted in a handle that can hold different narrow blades.
• Jab Saw (Noun): A modern variant with a stiff, pointed blade and an ergonomic handle, designed for plunge-cutting into drywall or soft materials without always needing a pilot hole.

Synonyms

• Narrow-bladed saw: A descriptive synonym emphasizing the tool's physical characteristic.
• All-purpose saw: A less precise, generic term sometimes used for similar small saws, though it lacks the specificity of "keyhole saw."

Related Phrases

• To cut a keyhole: This phrase describes the action for which the saw is named—cutting a keyhole shape. The tool facilitates this action.
  • He carefully cut a keyhole in the door for the new lock.

Related Idioms

• None directly associated: There are no common idioms that incorporate the term "keyhole saw." Its usage remains literal and technical.

Noun

1. a handsaw with a long narrow blade for cutting short radius curves; similar to a compass saw