What does knifepoint mean?
A knifepoint is literally the sharp, pointed end of a knife. It is also used figuratively to describe a situation involving the threat of a knife, usually one in which a person is forced to hand over money, reveal information, or otherwise act against their will. The expression “at knifepoint” is especially common in reports of armed robbery and other violent crime, but it can be extended metaphorically to describe intense pressure that leaves someone little meaningful freedom of choice. Although the separate form “knife point” is also common, “knifepoint” is treated as a single word in standard dictionaries. The term is vivid and emotionally charged, so it normally appears in descriptions of threats, coercion, danger, or extreme duress rather than in neutral contexts.
The pointed end of a knife.
"He pressed the knifepoint against the door."
This is the literal, physical sense and is less common than the figurative sense.
A situation in which someone is threatened or coerced with a knife.
"The cashier surrendered the cash at knifepoint."
Usually used in the expression “at knifepoint,” with “knife point” also common.
The plural is used when referring to multiple physical knife tips or to separate threatening situations.
"Several blunt knifepoints were found near the scene."
At knifepoint, a pointed object becomes the ultimate sign that ordinary choices have suddenly been taken away.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does knifepoint come from?
“Knifepoint” is a modern English compound formed from “knife” and “point.” “Knife” comes from Old Norse “knífr,” while “point” entered Middle English from Old French “pointe,” ultimately deriving from Latin “puncta.” The compound refers first to the tip of a knife and later, by extension, to the threatening use of a knife.
How knifepoint is actually used
The closed form “knifepoint” and the two-word form “knife point” are both used, particularly in the expression “at knifepoint.” The figurative sense is forceful and commonly describes robbery, violence, or coercive pressure.
Easily confused with knifepoint
Both forms have the same meaning; “knifepoint” is a closed compound, while “knife point” is often written as two words.