Definition of "switchblade" []

• A pocketknife having a spring-operated blade that opens instantly when a release on the handle is pressed. Also called switchblade knife, switch knife. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "Possession of a switchblade is a felony in Washington."
• "COSTELLO: Yes, the switchblade is another one, the ones that stab you in the back and smile to your face."
• "Mr Chernoff noted that the ruling had "gutted" his strategy but "if we have to a tank battle with a switchblade, that is exactly what we'll do"."