guillotine
Translation
guillotine
Examples
The guillotine was used during the French Revolution.
The guillotine was used during the French Revolution.
He used a paper guillotine to cut the stack.
He used a paper guillotine to cut the stack.
Grammar Patterns
((a/the)) guillotine a machine with a heavy blade, used for beheading people The king was executed by guillotine.
Similar Words
Synonyms: (for paper cutter) trimmer, cutter
Etymology
Named after Dr. Joseph-Ignace Guillotin, a French physician who proposed its use for more humane executions.
Memory Tips
Picture the sharp 'GUILL' sound as the blade falls. The name itself sounds sharp and French.