Ripper (noun)

1. A person or tool that rips.
2. A person who commits murder by disembowelling the victim.
3. A tool used to remove the insulating layer of a wire.

Origin:

From the verb "rip" (to tear apart), late 18th century.

Examples:

1. He used a ripper to rip up the old carpet.
2. The ripper murders were never solved.
3. The electrician used a wire ripper to strip the insulation off the wires.
4. The ripper clawed its way through the metal roof.
5. The ripper cut the fabric into strips.