cutting edge

noun

Synonyms of cutting edgenext
1
: a sharp effect or quality
2
: the foremost part or place : vanguard
cutting-edge
ˈkə-tiŋ-ˌej How to pronounce cutting edge (audio)
adjective

Synonyms of cutting edge

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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.
Smith says taking smart risks to stay on the cutting edge is essential. — Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 17 June 2026 Remember back when an open-plan layout was considered cutting edge? — Mary Holland, Architectural Digest, 16 June 2026 There’s plenty of cutting edge technology inside the Canvas L to make sure all that power is put to best use, too. — John Archer, Forbes.com, 27 June 2026 Instead of a definitive ranking, this list highlights seven of the world’s most advanced and capable air defense systems, each representing the cutting edge of its class. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 28 June 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

Rhymes for cutting edge

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Browse Nearby Words

cutting board
cutting edge
cutting fluid
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Cite this Entry

“Cutting edge.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cutting%20edge. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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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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