stone-cutter

A stone-cutter shapes a block of granite at his workshop.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A person who cuts or carves stone: "stone-cutter" refers to a skilled worker who shapes, splits, or carves stone for construction, sculpture, or decorative purposes.
   • A machine that cuts stone: "stone-cutter" also denotes a mechanical device used to cut or dress stone into specific shapes or sizes.

Usage Examples

• A person:

  • The stone-cutter carefully chiseled the granite into a perfect block. (A worker shaping stone for building.)
  • My grandfather was a stone-cutter who made headstones for the local cemetery. (A skilled artisan carving stone for memorials.)

• A machine:

  • The stone-cutter at the quarry can slice through marble in minutes. (A machine used for cutting stone efficiently.)
  • We rented a stone-cutter to trim the flagstones for the patio. (A mechanical tool for shaping stone.)

Advanced Usage

• "stone-cutter's craft": the skill and artistry involved in cutting and carving stone.

  • The stone-cutter's craft has been passed down through generations. (The traditional skill of working with stone.)

• "stone-cutter's mark": a symbol or initial carved by a stone-cutter to identify their work.

  • The medieval cathedral bears the stone-cutter's mark on every pillar. (A signature carved into stone.)

Variants and Related Words

• Stonecutting (n): the activity or process of cutting stone.

  • Stonecutting requires both strength and precision. (The profession or technique of working with stone.)

• Stonecutter (n): alternative spelling, used interchangeably with "stone-cutter."

  • The stonecutter used a hammer and chisel. (A worker who cuts stone.)

Synonyms

• Mason: a builder or worker in stone (often used for construction rather than carving).
• Carver: a person who shapes stone or wood by cutting.
• Lapidary: a person who cuts, polishes, or engraves gemstones (more specific to precious stones).

Related Idioms

• "A stone-cutter's patience": exceptional patience required for detailed or slow work.

  • She has the stone-cutter's patience needed to complete this intricate mosaic. (Extreme endurance and care.)

• "To work like a stone-cutter": to work steadily and methodically without rushing.

  • He worked like a stone-cutter, slowly and precisely finishing each task. (To labor with deliberate focus.)