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.
Smith says taking smart risks to stay on the cutting edge is essential. Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 17 June 2026 The technical quality of Vitinha, Joao Neves, Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva could arguably keep the ball for a full 90 minutes if they were asked to, but cutting edge is also essential in tournament football. Tim Spiers, New York Times, 17 June 2026 China hasn’t yet developed a reusable rocket, and its AI labs have already pivoted to focusing on low-cost technology rather than the cutting edge. Andy Browne, semafor.com, 16 June 2026 Remember back when an open-plan layout was considered cutting edge? Mary Holland, Architectural Digest, 16 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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