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sharpen

verb

sharp·​en ˈshär-pən How to pronounce sharpen (audio)
sharpened; sharpening ˈshär-pə-niŋ How to pronounce sharpen (audio)
ˈshärp-niŋ
Synonyms of sharpennext

transitive verb

: to make sharp or sharper
especially : hone

intransitive verb

: to become sharp or sharper
sharpener
ˈshär-pə-nər How to pronounce sharpen (audio)
ˈshärp-nər
noun

Examples of sharpen in a Sentence

Can you sharpen the image? The lecture sharpened my understanding of the topic. The outlines of the mountains sharpened as we got closer.
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.
Sokalski had sharpened her race skills for years and finally broke through a Mideast regional qualifier to be here at Loretta Lynn's Ranch among the dust and roar of the sport that ran in her family's blood. Nick Penzenstadler, USA Today, 4 Dec. 2025 That pushback has added fuel to the drama — and sharpened criticism of LSU’s aggressive attempts to recruit former Rebels, both players and staff, almost immediately after Kiffin’s exit became public. Rowan Fisher-Shotton, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Dec. 2025 However, if the system sharpens or shifts slightly north, a band of steadier snow could extend farther into the region, so the details will need to be watched closely. Andrew Kozak, CBS News, 3 Dec. 2025 The responsibility has sharpened her focus on the business fundamentals (everything from KPIs, three-year plans, commercial strategy) while balancing the public-facing demands of being a founder in the social media era. Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 3 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sharpen

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of sharpen was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sharpen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sharpen. Accessed 6 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

sharpen

verb
sharp·​en ˈshär-pən How to pronounce sharpen (audio)
sharpened; sharpening ˈshärp-(ə-)niŋ How to pronounce sharpen (audio)
1
: to make or become sharp or sharper
sharpen a pencil
a better lens sharpened the image
pain that suddenly sharpened
2
: improve
sharpen one's skills
sharpener noun

More from Merriam-Webster on sharpen

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