n. A cutting-instrument consisting of a comparatively short blade and a handle, adapted for easy use with the hand.n. In a wider sense, any small cutting-tool, or any part of a tool or machine having a sharp edge for cutting or scraping: as, the knives of a mowing-machine, printing-press, meat-chopper, straw-cutter, etc.n. A sword or cutlas; a long cutting-weapon.n. A saddlers' cutting-tool with a sharp convex edge.To stab or kill with a knife.To endeavor to defeat in a secret or underhand way in an election, as a candidate of one's own party. [Political slang, U.S.]