kerf

noun

ˈkərf How to pronounce kerf (audio)
Synonyms of kerfnext
1
: a slit or notch made by a saw or cutting torch
2
: the width of cut made by a saw or cutting torch

Synonyms

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Examples of kerf in a Sentence

with a handsaw I made a kerf in the board to mark where I needed to cut
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Make the first pass on all four posts, adjust the saw’s fence, and then make additional passes until the kerfs are formed. — Paul Steiner, Popular Mechanics, 24 Mar. 2023 Next, cut kerfs for the splines in the corner posts and side pieces. — Paul Steiner, Popular Mechanics, 24 Mar. 2023

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, action of cutting, from Old English cyrf; akin to Old English ceorfan to carve — more at carve

First Known Use

1523, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of kerf was in 1523

Browse Nearby Words

Kerewa
kerf
kerf graft
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Cite this Entry

“Kerf.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kerf. Accessed 31 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

kerf

noun
ˈkərf How to pronounce kerf (audio)
: a slit or notch made by a saw or a cutting torch
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