Dictionary-enhanced plural guide
What is the Plural of “Knife”?
Learn the singular and plural noun forms, the rule behind the plural, and examples that show the form in context.
Singular and Plural Form of Knife
Knife is the singular noun form. Knives is the plural form.
Dictionary meaning: A sharp tool with a handle that you use for cutting things like food or other materials.
Why is the Plural of Knife “knives”?
The Irregular Plural Rule for Knife
This noun has an irregular plural form that does not follow standard English pluralization rules.
Plural pattern: irregular.
How to Remember the Plural of Knife
“knife” → “knives” is an irregular plural — there is no rule, so memorise the pair as a whole. Try writing it in 3 sentences today.
A common slip-up: Mispronounced as 'k-nife' with /k/ sound audible; the 'k' should be completely silent..
Singular vs Plural Examples with Knife
See knife and knives used in real sentences side by side.
- I used a knife to cut the bread into slices. A1
- The chef uses a sharp knife to prepare vegetables quickly. A2
- A knife with proper care will last for many years. B1
Common Plural Mistakes with Knife
Wrong: She put the knifes on the table for dinner.
Correct: She put the knives on the table for dinner.
Plural of knife is irregular: knives, not knifes. The 'fe' changes to 'ves'.
How to Pronounce Knife and Knives
One syllable pronounced /naɪf/ with long 'i' sound (/aɪ/). The 'k' is silent. Final 'e' is silent.
Other Words With the Same Plural Pattern as Knife
These nouns follow the same irregular rule. Click any word to see its plural page.
A young boy or girl who is not yet an adult.
the two parts at the bottom of your legs that touch the…
A tiny insect that lives around food and moves very fast.
One of two equal parts that make up something complete.
A grown-up male person. A man is an adult male, not a…
The ability to remember things from the past, or the thought you…
One human; a single individual.
Money that a person earns from their job, paid regularly by their…
Origin and Etymology of Knife
From Old English 'cnif', from Proto-Germanic 'knibaz'; related to Dutch 'knijf'.
Cultural note: Cultural significance in dining etiquette (knife placement, table manners). Symbolism: danger, precision, craftsmanship.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Plural of Knife
What is the plural of “knife”?
The plural of “knife” is “knives”.
Is “knives” regular or irregular?
This page classifies it as irregular based on the available plural data.