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Strop: meaning, definitions and examples

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strop

 

[ strɒp ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

tool usage

A strop is a tool used for sharpening or honing blades, particularly razors. It typically consists of a strip of leather or canvas that is used to polish the cutting edge of the blade to ensure a sharper finish. Strops are often used in conjunction with other sharpening methods to enhance the sharpness of the blade further. Properly using a strop can extend the life of a blade and improve its performance.

Synonyms

honing strip, sharpening belt

Examples of usage

  • He used a strop to finish sharpening his razor.
  • After honing the blade, she polished it with a strop.
  • Many barbers use a strop to maintain their straight razors.
Context #2 | Verb

sharpening actions

To strop means to use a strop in order to sharpen or hone a blade. The action involves running the blade along the strop in a specific manner to create a finer edge. This technique is common among those who regularly maintain knives and razors. Regular stropping can help keep an edge sharp without the need for more abrasive sharpening methods.

Synonyms

hone, polish

Examples of usage

  • He stropped his knife before going on the camping trip.
  • It's important to strop the razor after each use.
  • I always strop my kitchen knives every month.

Translations

Translations of the word "strop" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cinto

🇮🇳 पट्टी

🇩🇪 Riemen

🇮🇩 tali

🇺🇦 ремінь

🇵🇱 pas

🇯🇵 ストラップ

🇫🇷 sangle

🇪🇸 cinturón

🇹🇷 kemer

🇰🇷 스트랩

🇸🇦 حزام

🇨🇿 pás

🇸🇰 pás

🇨🇳 带

🇸🇮 pas

🇮🇸 belti

🇰🇿 белт

🇬🇪 სარტყელი

🇦🇿 kəmər

🇲🇽 cinturón

Etymology

The term 'strop' originates from the early 19th century and is derived from the word 'strop' meaning 'to sharpen' or 'to polish'. It is believed to have come from the Middle English term 'stroppe', which referred specifically to a strap or band, primarily made from leather. The evolution of its meaning aligns with the development of sharpening techniques used by craftsmen, especially in the barbering and knife-making industries. The leather material utilized for strops was favored for its effectiveness in aligning and refining the edge of blades. Over the years, the use of strops expanded beyond traditional shaving and into various fields requiring precision sharpening, cementing the term in both everyday language and specialized trades.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,755, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.