Cutting

Definition

Cutting refers to the act of making an incision or dividing something using a sharp tool or instrument. It can also refer to a piece of something that has been cut off, as well as sharp, harsh remarks in a figurative sense. In horticulture, it refers to a piece of a plant used to grow a new plant.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkʌtɪŋ/
• Respelling: KUT-ing

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkʌtɪŋ/
• Respelling: KUT-ing

The pronunciation of "cutting" is identical in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "cutting" is derived from the verb "cut," which comes from the Old English word "cyttan," meaning "to divide" or "to make an incision." It has Germanic origins and has been used in English since the Middle Ages. The present participle "cutting" evolved to describe both the action of cutting and items resulting from it, such as plant cuttings or harsh statements.

Derivatives

• Cut (verb/noun)
• Cuttingly (adverb)
• Cutting-edge (adjective)
• Recutting (verb)
• Undercutting (verb)

Synonyms

• Severing
• Incision
• Clipping

Antonyms

• Joining
• Repairing
• Healing

Usage

The term "cutting" is commonly used in various fields, including medicine, horticulture, and conversation. In physical contexts, it refers to the process of slicing, carving, or separating something using a sharp instrument. In horticulture, cuttings are parts of plants used to propagate new plants. Figuratively, the word "cutting" can describe sharp or hurtful remarks. It is also used to describe advancements in technology as "cutting-edge," meaning highly innovative.

Related Terms

• Slice: To cut something into thin pieces.
• Incision: A surgical cut or slit made in the body or object.
• Prune: To trim or cut away dead or overgrown parts of a plant.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act of making an incision or dividing something: Refers to the process of using a sharp instrument to make cuts.
  • Example: "The surgeon performed a precise cutting to remove the tumor."
• A piece of something that has been cut off: Often used in horticulture to describe a piece of plant stem or root used for propagation.
  • Example: "He planted the cutting to grow a new rose bush."
• Sharp or harsh remarks: Describes words that are intended to hurt or criticize someone.
  • Example: "Her cutting comments left him speechless."

Adjective

• Harsh or severe: Refers to something that is sharp or hurtful, whether physically or figuratively.
  • Example: "His cutting tone was unmistakably cruel."
• Innovative or advanced: Used to describe the latest advancements in technology, ideas, or practices.
  • Example: "The company is known for its cutting-edge technology."