scythe

1 of 2

noun

: an implement used for mowing grass, grain, or other crops and composed of a long curving blade fastened at an angle to a long handle

Illustration of scythe

Illustration of scythe

scythe

2 of 2

verb

scythed; scything

intransitive verb

: to use a scythe

transitive verb

: to cut with or as if with a scythe
scything cornstalks

Examples of scythe in a Sentence

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.
Noun
As a result of Elon Musk’s relentless scythe, the Department of Government Efficiency, the big layoffs are in and around Washington. Alec MacGillis, ProPublica, 13 Mar. 2025 Liam grabbed a nearby scythe and was going in for the kill, when Nyla and Angela showed up to save the day, cuff Liam and haul him away. Matt Webb Mitovich, TVLine, 25 Feb. 2025
Verb
The other, the furor over Elon Musk’s role in trying to scythe down the size of the federal government, has more in common with the reality TV-style drama that always surrounds Trump. Niall Stanage, The Hill, 25 Feb. 2025 Forest have rarely been opened up throughout their magnificent season, yet Newcastle scythed through the visitors at ease. Chris Waugh, The Athletic, 24 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for scythe

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English sithe, from Old English sīthe; akin to Old English sagu saw — more at saw

First Known Use

Noun

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Verb

circa 1580, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of scythe was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Scythe.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scythe. Accessed 14 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

scythe

noun
ˈsīt͟h,
: a tool that has a curved blade on a long curved handle and is used for mowing grass or grain by hand

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