Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Having a sharp cutting edge: Describes an object, especially a blade or tool, that has been sharpened to a fine edge for cutting.
   • Having a border or margin of a specified kind: Describes something with a distinct boundary, rim, or decorative border.
   • Harsh, sharp, or biting in tone or character: Used to describe speech, criticism, or humor that is incisive, severe, or hurtful.

Usage Examples

• Having a sharp edge:
  • He used an edged tool to carve the wood.
  • Be careful with that edged blade; it's very sharp.
• Having a specified border:
  • She received a letter on black-edged stationery, signifying mourning.
  • The path was lined with rough-edged stones.
• Harsh or biting in tone:
  • The critic's edged commentary left the author feeling wounded.
  • His edged wit was both admired and feared at the dinner party.

Advanced Usage

• "Double-edged" or "two-edged": Having two sharp sides; figuratively, having both favorable and unfavorable consequences.
  • Technology is a double-edged sword; it connects us but can also isolate.
• "Sharp-edged": Literally having a very sharp edge; figuratively, very direct and penetrating.
  • The debate featured sharp-edged arguments from both candidates.

Variants and Related Words

• Edge (n/v): The sharp side of a blade; the border or margin of something; to move carefully or to surpass narrowly.
• Edging (n): A border or trimming, often decorative.
• Edgeless (adj): Lacking a sharp edge or distinct boundary.

Synonyms

• Sharpened: Made sharp.
• Bordered: Having a border.
• Cutting: Keenly penetrating, as in speech.
• Incisive: Clear and sharp in analysis or expression.
• Keen: Sharp, either literally or figuratively.

Related Phrases

• On edge: Nervous, tense, or irritable.
  • The constant noise had everyone on edge.
• Edge out: To defeat or surpass by a small margin.
  • The new model edged out its competitors in sales.
• Take the edge off: To reduce the intensity or severity of something.
  • A snack took the edge off his hunger before dinner.

Related Idioms

• Cutting edge: The most advanced stage of development; the forefront.
  • The company's research is at the cutting edge of biotechnology.
• On the edge of one's seat: In a state of keen excitement or suspense.
  • The thriller had the audience on the edge of their seats.

Adjective

1. having a cutting edge or especially an edge or edges as specified; often used in combination
   • an edged knife
   • a two-edged sword
2. (of speech) harsh or hurtful in tone or character
   • cutting remarks
   • edged satire
   • a stinging comment
3. having a specified kind of border or edge
   • a black-edged card
   • rough-edged leaves
   • dried sweat left salt-edged patches