spife

Spife is a hybrid eating utensil that combines the functions of a spoon and a knife. It typically features a spoon-shaped bowl with a sharpened edge along the rim or a short integrated blade, enabling the user to scoop food and cut it without switching utensils. The edge may be plain or serrated depending on the design. The term 'spife' is a portmanteau of spoon and knife and is commonly used in consumer product naming rather than as a formal culinary term.

Most spifes are manufactured as a single piece of metal—often stainless steel or titanium—or from durable plastic, intended for easy cleaning and portability. Variants differ in where the cutting edge sits: some designs place the blade along the outer rim of the spoon, others mold the edge into a flat, knife-like section at the bowl's side, and some include a short, pointed tip for piercing.

Use and audience: spifes are marketed mainly for camping, travel, or compact utensil sets where reducing items is desirable. They appeal to campers and novelty-seekers but remain a niche item for general dining.

Limitations: the combined tool trades some versatility for compactness and may be less effective for heavy cutting or delicate food prep compared to separate utensils. Cleaning and care vary by material and design.

History: the general idea of a spoon-knife hybrid exists in various forms, but the specific branded term 'spife' gained traction in late 20th-century product catalogs and catalogs of outdoor gear.