Scalpel/ˈskælpəl/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Surgical Precision Used to describe accuracy in medical contexts, often beyond surgery. The procedure requires the precision of a scalpel. Pro Tip 2/3Clinical Atmosphere Mentions of a scalpel usually suggest a sterile, clinical setting. She entered the room, which had the cold feel of a scalpel. Pro Tip 3/3Life-saving Tool Scalpels are associated with life-saving operations and skilled surgeons. The skilled surgeon's scalpel was life-saving.