cutting edge

noun

Synonyms of cutting edgenext
1
: a sharp effect or quality
2
: the foremost part or place : vanguard
cutting-edge adjective

Examples of cutting edge in a Sentence

a company that has always been on the cutting edge of the new electronic media He's a director who tries to keep his films right on the cutting edge.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Vast investments in cutting edge platforms to fight in the air and at sea have come at the expense of the American ability to produce artillery shells for Ukrainian allies. Ben Smith, semafor.com, 23 Mar. 2026 Here are a few ways pi is being used on the cutting edge of science. ABC News, 14 Mar. 2026 The poor recruitment, defensive lapses and lack of cutting edge that have characterised this season were all on display. Steve Madeley, New York Times, 7 Mar. 2026 The Legislature has a responsibility to protect our tech legacy and provide opportunities to make sure California remains on the cutting edge of research and development. Tri Ta, Oc Register, 6 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cutting edge

Word History

First Known Use

1804, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of cutting edge was in 1804

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Cite this Entry

“Cutting edge.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cutting%20edge. Accessed 2 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

cutting edge

noun
1
: the sharp edge of a cutting tool
2
: the newest and most advanced area of an activity
cutting-edge adjective
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