ETYM Old Eng. knif, as. cnîf; akin to Dutch knijf, Icel. knîfr, Swed. knif, Dan. kniv.
(Irregular plural: knives).
1. A cutting instrument with a sharp-edged pointed metal blade with a handle.
2. A weapon with a handle and blade with a sharp point.

A knife with a blade that folds into the handle; suitable for carrying in the pocket; SYN. pocket knife.