What Does “go under the knife” mean?
Definition:
If you go under the knife, you have surgery ( i.e., a medical operation.)
Origin
The phrase “go under the knife” was first recorded in 1880 according to the American Heritage Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
“The knife” in the phrase may refer to surgical instruments such as scalpels, scissors, and saws.
Example(s)
She is going under the knife tomorrow.
You’d better get other opinions before going under the knife.
Surgery just wasn’t an option for me. I’m terrified of the thought of going under the knife.
This idiom is in the health category.
