schaar

A schaar is a hand-operated cutting tool consisting of two metal blades connected at a pivot. When the handles are squeezed, the blades cross each other to shear material such as paper, cloth, hair, or tape. Scissors are used in households, workshops, and professional settings, and are designed for different materials and tasks.

Etymology: The Dutch word schaar designates this tool. It is cognate with German Schere and English scissors, and they all derive from a shared Proto-Germanic root related to cutting. In modern Dutch, the singular is schaar and the plural is scharen.

Variants and uses: Variants include huishoudschaar (household scissors) for paper and general tasks; keuken-schaar (kitchen scissors) for food and kitchen tasks; kleermakersschaar (dressmaking scissors) for fabric; kinderscharen (children’s scissors) with safer, blunt tips; and chirurgische schaar (surgical scissors) used in medical procedures. Special-purpose scissors exist for electronics, gardening, and crafts, such as tinscharen for cutting metal sheets.

Design and materials: Blades are usually made of steel, often stainless or high-carbon steel to resist corrosion and maintain a sharp edge. Some models have curved blades, serrated edges to grip material, or micro-serrations. Handles may be plastic or metal, and safety versions include blunted tips or rounded edges for children.

Care and safety: Keep scissors dry and clean to prevent rust; sharpen or have them professionally resharpened when needed; avoid using household scissors for heavy metal or stone tasks to prevent damage. Store with blades closed and away from children.