rare–0. [ad. Gr. σταφυλοτόμον knife for cutting the uvula, f. σταφυλή (see STAPHYLE) + -τόμο- that cuts.] See quot.
The explanation in Dunglison, Med. Lex., 1876, ‘A knife adapted to the operation for staphyloma,’ appears to be unfounded.
1875. Knight, Dict. Mech., Staphylotome, a knife for operating upon the uvula or palate.
