English Reference

Word

notched

US/ˈnɑtʃt/

UK/nˈɒtʃt/

Definition

adj. having a small V-shaped cut or mark on the edge. You use this to describe something that has been carved or chipped to help it fit or to keep track of a score.

adj. marked with a V-shaped indentation or nick on an edge or surface. Often describes physical objects like wood or bone, or can refer to a serrated edge profile.

Examples

“The carpenter used a notched piece of wood to join the frames.”

“Ancient hunters often used a notched stick to keep a permanent record of their successful hunts.”

“The gears were designed with a notched circumference to ensure they locked precisely into place during the high-speed rotation of the engine.”

Examples

simple

“The carpenter used a notched piece of wood to join the frames.”

contextual

“Ancient hunters often used a notched stick to keep a permanent record of their successful hunts.”

complex

“The gears were designed with a notched circumference to ensure they locked precisely into place during the high-speed rotation of the engine.”

Usage

Typically used as an attributive adjective before a noun.

Real-World Examples

“He notched up the UK’s bestselling single of 1979 with Bright Eyes, the theme from the film Watership Down, but the decade ended with a bump.”
The Guardian · 4 Sept 2026
“Wisley in Surrey has now notched up 60 days with no recorded rainfall.”
BBC News · 17 Aug 2026

This entry

Level
C1 · Advanced
Frequency
Occasional
Updated

Scan code

englishreference.com/q/notched

English Reference