as in chip
a V-shaped cut usually on an edge or a surface with a handsaw I made a kerf in the board to mark where I needed to cut

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of kerf 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 Mark the kerf on the end grain of a post. Paul Steiner, Popular Mechanics, 24 Mar. 2023 This reduces bowing and creates a thinner kerf, making pull saws ideal for joints and other fine woodwork. Pierre Tardif, WSJ, 3 June 2021 Begin by ripping and crosscutting the shelves, the sides, the bottom and the top panel from red-oak plywood with a 40-tooth thin-kerf blade in a circular saw. Joseph Truini, Popular Mechanics, 26 Sep. 2020 The thin-kerf chain (its teeth are 3/32-inch wide) zips through each cut with smoothness and precision. Roy Berendson, Popular Mechanics, 18 Mar. 2020
Recent Examples of Synonyms for kerf
Noun
  • Every phone in the Galaxy S25 range has the same super-fast processor inside: the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chip.
    David Phelan, Forbes.com, 3 May 2025
  • Inside was a computer chip which was also taken as evidence.
    Peter D'Abrosca , Alexis McAdams , Maria Paronich, FOXNews.com, 2 May 2025
Noun
  • In 2023, Heidi Klum arrived in a boob-baring Zuhair Murad look featuring thigh-high slits and dramatic wings, while Irina Shayk wore Gucci lingerie.
    Robyn Merrett, StyleCaster, 13 May 2025
  • Hadid’s look featured a cross-back dress with a thigh-high slit in silk satin.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 13 May 2025
Noun
  • Versatile offense finds its groove The Cardinals have scored 44 runs in eight games, which is encouraging enough.
    Katie Woo, New York Times, 12 May 2025
  • But where Vida Caña has really found its creative groove is in its Single Barrel Finishing Series, a program that started more or less by accident.
    Hudson Lindenberger, Forbes.com, 11 May 2025
Noun
  • The core materials were then mixed with oats and water and pressed into molds with bubble-like indents and rough line patterns.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 4 Apr. 2025
  • The Honda sustained damage to its front passenger side, and the Outback had an indent to its front driver-side bumper.
    Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 27 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Kerf.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/kerf. Accessed 17 May. 2025.

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