paper-cutter

A librarian uses the paper-cutter to trim the edges of a new book.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A tool for cutting paper: A "paper-cutter" is a device or implement specifically designed for cutting sheets of paper, often with a sharp blade and a straight edge for precise trimming.
   • A machine for cutting paper: In professional or industrial contexts, a "paper-cutter" refers to a mechanical or electric machine used to cut large stacks of paper, such as in printing shops or offices.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • She used a paper-cutter to trim the edges of the photographs. (A handheld or desk tool for cutting paper.)
  • The print shop uses a large paper-cutter to slice reams of paper into smaller sizes. (A machine for cutting multiple sheets at once.)

Advanced Usage

• "Guillotine paper-cutter": A specific type of paper-cutter with a swinging blade that cuts paper by pressing down, often used in offices for clean, straight cuts.

  • The guillotine paper-cutter is safer than older models because it has a blade guard. (A lever-operated cutter.)

• "Rotary paper-cutter": A paper-cutter that uses a circular blade to slice paper, commonly used for scrapbooking or crafting.

  • A rotary paper-cutter is ideal for cutting curves and straight lines with precision. (A cutter with a rolling blade.)

Variants and Related Words

• Paper cutter (n): an alternative spelling (without hyphen) with the same meaning.

  • He bought a new paper cutter for his home office. (A tool for cutting paper.)

• Papercut (n): a small cut caused by the edge of a piece of paper, not a device.

  • A papercut on his finger stung for hours. (A minor injury, not a tool.)

Synonyms

• Trimmer: a device used to cut paper, often with a straight edge and blade.

  • The trimmer is similar to a paper-cutter but usually smaller. (A cutting tool for paper.)

• Guillotine: a type of paper-cutter with a lever-operated blade, named after the execution device.

  • The guillotine made quick work of the stack of paper. (A specific paper-cutter design.)

Phrasal Verbs

• Cut with a paper-cutter: to use the tool to cut paper.
  • She cut the poster with a paper-cutter to make it fit the frame. (To trim using the device.)

Related Idioms

• (No common idioms directly involve "paper-cutter," but it may appear in technical contexts.)