straight-edge

A student uses a straight-edge to draw a line on graph paper.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A tool for measuring or drawing straight lines: A "straight-edge" is a flat, rigid tool, typically made of wood, metal, or plastic, with a perfectly straight edge used for drawing straight lines or checking the straightness of surfaces.
   • A subculture or lifestyle: In modern usage, "straight-edge" refers to a person who abstains from alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and often promiscuous sexual activity, originating from the hardcore punk subculture. This meaning is typically hyphenated as "straight-edge" when used as a noun or adjective.

Usage Examples

• Tool:

  • He used a metal straight-edge to ensure the line was perfectly straight. (A tool for drawing or measuring straight lines.)
  • The carpenter checked the board with a straight-edge to see if it was warped. (A tool for verifying straightness.)

• Lifestyle:

  • She identifies as straight-edge and avoids all drugs and alcohol. (A person committed to a drug-free and alcohol-free lifestyle.)
  • The band's lyrics promote straight-edge values. (The subculture's principles of abstinence.)

Advanced Usage

• "to be straight-edge": to adhere to the straight-edge lifestyle.

  • He has been straight-edge for ten years, never touching alcohol or cigarettes. (He has lived without substances for a decade.)

• "straight-edge movement": the cultural and social phenomenon surrounding this lifestyle.

  • The straight-edge movement gained popularity in the 1980s through punk music. (The subculture's growth and influence.)

Variants and Related Words

• Straight-edge (adj): describing a person or object that is straight-edge.
  • She is a straight-edge activist, promoting healthy living. (Adjective form.)
• Edge (n): the sharp or straight side of an object.
  • The blade's edge was razor-sharp. (Related to the tool meaning.)

Synonyms

• Tool: ruler, level, T-square.
• Lifestyle: teetotaler, abstainer, clean-living person.

Phrasal Verbs

• None directly associated: "straight-edge" is not used as a verb.

Related Idioms

• "On the straight and narrow": to live a morally upright and lawful life.

  • After his recovery, he stayed on the straight and narrow. (Living without vice, similar to straight-edge ideals.)

• "Cutting edge": the most advanced or innovative part of something.

  • The technology is at the cutting edge of science. (Not directly related, but shares the "edge" root.)