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

The obsolete buildings are gone, Zurich fills up vacant space, and his village remains on the cutting edge. — Alex Nitkin, Chicago Tribune, 23 Aug. 2026

These are devices that were cutting edge some 20-30 years ago and the technology reflects that. — Anthony Karcz, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026

And, while this new image is the result of a team effort of cutting edge-technology, the Black Eye Galaxy is also a favorite target for backyard astronomers because it can often be spotted in small telescopes. — Chelsea Gohd, Space.com, 18 Aug. 2026

The move demonstrates the fast-growing appeal of short-form vertical video, even for a company that is also on the cutting edge of the scrolling graphic novel format. — William Earl, Variety, 17 Aug. 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