I. ˈkərf, ˈkə̄f noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English kirf, kerf (also, action of cutting), from Old English cyrf action of cutting, something cut off; akin to Middle High German kerbe, kerp notch, Old English ceorfan to carve — more at carve
1.
a. : a slit or notch made in cutting usually by a saw or cutting torch
b. : the width of cut that a saw or cutting torch makes in wood or other material
2. : groove 2a(4)
3. : a deep narrow cut in a face of coal (as to facilitate mining or to remove clay or dirt seams)
II. transitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
: to make a kerf in especially by sawing ; specifically : to cut (as a beam) transversely along the underside in order to permit bending