cutting edge

noun

1

: a sharp effect or quality

2

: the foremost part or place : vanguard

cutting-edge

ˈkə-tiŋ-ˌej 

adjective

Synonyms of cutting edge

• vanguard
• underground
• pioneer

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

To keep Ulta at the cutting edge of not just beauty, but personal well-being writ large as category lines continue to intersect. — Noor Lobad, Footwear News, 27 Oct. 2026

This highlights a challenge of living on the cutting edge of cancer treatment. — Stat Staff, STAT, 23 Oct. 2026

An infatuation with Church’s Like most heritage brands, Church’s was once at the cutting edge of technology. — Luke Leitch, Vogue, 20 Oct. 2026

Westfield Topanga has long been at the cutting edge of mall culture. — Roger Vincent, Los Angeles Times, 15 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1804, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for cutting edge

• allege
• straightedge
• dredge
• hedge
• ledge
• pledge
• sedge
• sledge
• wedge

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