chisel

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C1 — Advanced

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun an edge tool with a flat steel blade with a cutting edge
  2. verb engage in deceitful behavior; practice trickery or fraud
  3. verb deprive somebody of something by deceit

Etymology

From Middle English chisel, chesel, from Old Northern French chisel, cisel, from cisoir (with a change in suffix), from Late Latin cīsōrium (“cutting tool”), from Latin caedō (“cut”). Doublet of scissors.

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