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INTRODUCTION:
What is the meaning of Cutlass?
A cutlass is a short, single-edged blade used for cutting, slashing, and clearing vegetation — especially common across farms and homes in Nigeria. But originally, it wasn’t just a farmer’s tool; it started off as a weapon.
The traditional cutlass comes from the era of naval warfare. Back then, sailors and pirates used it during close combat on ships. It had a straight or slightly curved blade, usually between 28 to 32 inches long, and featured a basket-shaped guard to protect the hand. These weapons were durable, with hilts made of wood and brass — materials that could survive salty sea air.
In Nigeria today, the cutlass is no longer a weapon. Instead, it’s a versatile farm tool, found in nearly every rural household. Farmers use it to clear bush, harvest crops, or weed around plants. It’s even part of the school checklist in some parts of the country — yes, students carry cutlasses for farm work during practical agriculture.
So when you hear “cutlass” in Nigeria, think agriculture, not pirates.
In short: A cutlass is a broad, curved or straight-edged blade used mainly for slashing — now commonly used as a farm tool in Nigeria.
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In West African English, “cutlass” is the everyday word for what the rest of the world calls a “machete"
– HTS Farms
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01.
Which is Correct: “Machete” or “Cutlass”?
In standard global English, the tool commonly referred to as a “cutlass” in West Africa is known as a machete. The machete is a large, broad-bladed knife used for cutting through thick vegetation, agricultural work, and a variety of outdoor tasks. Its blade typically ranges from 12 to 28 inches in length and is designed for chopping, clearing brush, and harvesting crops.
The Origin of Cutlass
The term “cutlass” in West African English is a regional adaptation that diverges from its original meaning in British and American English.
Historically, a cutlass was a short, curved sword used by sailors and pirates for close combat, especially during the 17th and 18th centuries.
However, in West Africa (and the English-speaking Caribbean), “cutlass” has come to mean the agricultural tool globally known as a machete. This linguistic shift likely stems from colonial-era English, where the word “cutlass” was used for both the sword and for machete-like agricultural tools, especially in tropical regions. Over time, the term stuck in West African English to refer to the machete, while in other varieties of English, “machete” became the standard term for the tool
Historically, a cutlass was a short, curved sword used by sailors and pirates for close combat, especially during the 17th and 18th centuries.
However, in West Africa (and the English-speaking Caribbean), “cutlass” has come to mean the agricultural tool globally known as a machete. This linguistic shift likely stems from colonial-era English, where the word “cutlass” was used for both the sword and for machete-like agricultural tools, especially in tropical regions. Over time, the term stuck in West African English to refer to the machete, while in other varieties of English, “machete” became the standard term for the tool
- In global English, “cutlass” refers to a sword, while “machete” refers to the agricultural tool.
- In West African English, “cutlass” is the everyday word for what the rest of the world calls a “machete”
02.
How to Pronounce Cutlass
The correct way to pronounce Cutlass is “KUT-luhs” – nice and simple. In phonetic transcription, it’s written as /ˈkʌt.ləs/. Now, don’t let that throw you off — let’s break it down in a way that makes sense for everyday use. Say it like this: “KUT-luhs”
Split it into two parts: “Cut” like you’re cutting something and “luhs” which sounds like a soft, quick “less” without the “e” sound dragged out
Here’s the sound guide:
- /k/ as in cat
- /ʌ/ as in cup
- /t/ as in town
- /l/ as in look
- /ə/ – this is the schwa sound, soft and super quick, like the ‘a’ in above
- /s/ as in say
UK and US? No difference.
Whether you’re speaking British English or American English, the pronunciation doesn’t change. So no stress — you’re saying it right either way.
Practice Tips That Work
- Break it into two: Say “kut”… pause… then say “luhs.”
- Blend it: Now say it together smoothly: KUT-luhs.
- Listen to real examples:
Use tools like Youglish to hear native speakers say it in real sentences.
Or just search “How to pronounce cutlass” on YouTube and mimic what you hear.
Why Pronunciation Matters
Knowing how to say cutlass correctly isn’t just for showing off English. You’ll find it in:
- Historical novels or pirate stories (yes, sailors used cutlasses!)
- Agricultural conversations
- Even news and documentaries about Nigeria or Africa
It’s one of those simple words that carries both cultural weight and everyday usefulness.
03.
Common Uses of a Cutlass in Nigeria
The cutlass remains an indispensable tool in many Nigerian communities, serving multiple practical purposes across farming, domestic, security, educational, and recreational activities.
- Farming
In agriculture, the cutlass is primarily used for weeding and harvesting. Farmers rely on it to clear weeds around crops and to harvest various farm produce efficiently. Despite advances in agricultural technology, the cutlass continues to be a fundamental tool in traditional farming practices across Nigeria.
2. Domestic Use
At home, the cutlass is commonly used for clearing the compound. It helps in cutting down overgrown grass, shrubs, and small trees, maintaining a clean and tidy environment around residential areas.
3. Security in Rural Areas
In many rural communities, the cutlass also serves as a means of security. It is often carried for protection due to limited access to modern security tools, helping residents defend themselves against threats.
4. Schools
In some rural and less urbanized areas, cutlasses are still used in schools, particularly for clearing school compounds and assisting in practical agricultural lessons. This use underscores the tool’s continued relevance in educational settings where farming is part of the curriculum.
5. Gardening and Bush Trekking
For gardening, the cutlass is essential for clearing bushes and managing garden spaces. It is also a vital tool for bush trekking, allowing individuals to cut through dense vegetation when navigating rural or forested areas.
Overall, the cutlass is a versatile and culturally significant tool in Nigeria, integral to daily life in many communities.
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04.
Cutlass Price in Nigeria (Updated 2025)
The price of cutlasses in Nigeria in 2025 varies depending on the type, quality, and origin of the cutlass. Generally, prices range from as low as ₦2,350 to about ₦17,000, catering to different needs and budgets
Price Breakdown by Type
- Stainless Steel Cutlass: These are durable and often imported or locally made with quality steel. Prices typically range from ₦5,000 to ₦9,500. For example, original engineering knives and Ghana imported cutlasses fall into this category, priced around ₦8,500 to ₦9,500.
- Rubber-Handled Cutlass: These are more affordable, designed for lighter use with rubber grips for comfort. Prices start from about ₦3,400 to ₦4,500.
- Imported Cutlass: Premium imported cutlasses, such as those from Ghana or other foreign sources, are priced higher, generally between ₦8,000 and ₦17,000. The high end includes carbide saws and specialized machetes.
- Basic Wooden Handle Cutlass: The most economical option, often with wooden handles and steel blades, can be found for as low as ₦2,350 on platforms like HTSFarms.ng
Where to Buy Cutlasses in Nigeria
- HTSFarms.ng: Offers durable cutlasses starting at ₦2,350 with options for straight or curved blades, ideal for agricultural use.
- Local Markets: Traditional markets across Nigeria stock a variety of cutlasses, including rubber-handled and imported types, with prices reflecting the range mentioned.
- Online Stores: Platforms like Jiji.ng and Jumia.ng provide extensive listings of cutlasses with price filters, allowing buyers to choose from budget to premium options conveniently.
This pricing reflects the current market as of May 2025 and can fluctuate slightly based on location and seller. Buyers are advised to compare prices across these sources for the best deals.
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CONCLUSION:
The cutlass isn’t just a farm tool — it’s a part of everyday survival in many parts of Nigeria. From clearing weeds to harvesting crops or even trimming your backyard bush, this simple blade does a lot more than we give it credit for.
Whether you call it a cutlass or a machete, what matters most is knowing its purpose, how to choose the right one, and where to get it at the right price. At HTSFarms.ng, we stock affordable and durable cutlasses for every use — from local farming needs to export-grade options.
Ready to buy one that lasts?
Check out our cutlasses on HTSFarms.ng
Frequently Asked Questions
The English name for cutlass is machete, especially in American and British English. “Cutlass” is commonly used in West Africa, but both refer to the same tool.
Yes, a machete and a cutlass refer to the same long-bladed tool. The difference is mostly in the name depending on the region — “cutlass” in Nigeria and “machete” internationally.
In Nigeria, the cutlass is used for farming (weeding, harvesting), domestic chores (clearing land), and sometimes self-defense in rural areas. It’s one of the most versatile hand tools.
As of 2025, the average cutlass price in Nigeria ranges from ₦1,800 to ₦5,500 depending on the type, material, and handle quality. You can buy quality ones online at HTSFarms.ng.
