cusp

noun

ˈkəsp 

: point, apex: such as

a

: a point of transition (as from one historical period to the next) : turning point

also : edge, verge

on the cusp of stardom

… you're on the cusp between heat exhaustion and life-threatening heatstroke.

—Mark Jannot

b

: either horn of a crescent moon

c

: a fixed point on a mathematical curve at which a point tracing the curve would exactly reverse its direction of motion

d

: an ornamental pointed projection formed by or arising from the intersection of two arcs or foils (see foil entry 2 sense 4)

e(1)

: a point on the grinding surface of a tooth

(2)

: a fold or flap of a cardiac valve

cuspate

ˈkə-ˌspāt 

-spət

adjective

cusped

ˈkəspt 

adjective

Illustration of cusp

• 1 cusp d

Synonyms of cusp

• verge
• brink

Examples of cusp in a Sentence

the cusp of a tooth

medical researchers who are on the cusp of a major breakthrough

Recent Examples on the Web

Premium grew 14% year-over-year, while main cabin grew only 1%, bringing the airline to the cusp of a milestone a year ahead of original projections. —Sydney Lake, Fortune, 9 Apr. 2026

Particularly useful for Yao and colleagues was data from two of Cassini's instruments, the Cassini Magnetometer (MAG) and the Cassini Plasma Spectrometer (CAPS), both of which detected incidents during which the spacecraft passed through Saturn's magnetic cusp. —Robert Lea, Space.com, 1 Apr. 2026

Years of training and over 2,700 miles of travel had led her to the cusp of winning a half marathon. —Tyler McManus, Boston Herald, 28 Mar. 2026

But those just on the cusp of getting into riding motorcycles, perhaps the younger population between 15 and 25. —New Atlas, 13 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin cuspis point

First Known Use

1585, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing cusp

• on the cusp

Kids Definition

cusp

noun

ˈkəsp 

: a point or pointed end or part: as

a

: either of the pointed ends of a crescent moon

b

: a point on the grinding surface of a tooth

c

: a fold or flap of a heart valve

Medical Definition

cusp

noun

ˈkəsp 

1

: a point on the grinding surface of a tooth

2

: a fold or flap of a cardiac valve

cuspal

ˈkəs-pəl 

adjective