leading edge

noun

ˈlē-diŋ- 

1

: the forward part of something that moves or seems to move

2

: the foremost edge of an airfoil

3

: cutting edge

leading-edge

ˈlē-diŋ-ˈej 

adjective

Synonyms

• forefront

Examples of leading edge in a Sentence

the leading edge of an airplane's wing

the leading edge of a thunderstorm

Recent Examples on the Web

Building a new American Foundry for advanced semiconductors is the best strategy to keep the United States and American firms at the leading edge of AI and advanced electronics, and to ensure that critical supply chains are not disrupted by geopolitics, pandemics, or natural disasters. —Jane Swift, Fortune, 6 Aug. 2025

With tens of billions of dollars in additional funding now directed toward ICE, Louisiana is at the leading edge of an expansive and aggressive nationwide effort to expel immigrants, far beyond the actions taken during the first Trump administration. —Brent McDonald, New York Times, 31 July 2025

American science is a roaring success, giving patients hope and placing our country on the leading edge of innovation. —Seth Tomchik, Sun Sentinel, 24 July 2025

But the company was not always on the leading edge. —Pete Born, Footwear News, 15 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1877, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for leading edge

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