kerf

noun

ˈkərf 

1

: a slit or notch made by a saw or cutting torch

2

: the width of cut made by a saw or cutting torch

Synonyms

• chip
• hack
• indent
• indentation
• indenture
• nick
• notch

Examples of kerf in a Sentence

with a handsaw I made a kerf in the board to mark where I needed to cut

Recent Examples on the Web

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

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, action of cutting, from Old English cyrf; akin to Old English ceorfan to carve — more at carve

First Known Use

1523, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

kerf

noun

ˈkərf 

: a slit or notch made by a saw or a cutting torch