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

But inside, the agency is operating on the cutting edge of technology. —Bo Evans, CBS News, 18 Apr. 2026

From the upper echelons of global logistics to the cutting edge of industrial energy, this week’s business landscape is defined by transition and rapid scaling. —Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 16 Apr. 2026

While Brown only owed about $2,000 herself, the six-figure charges to Brown and her insurance company show how quickly prices for cutting edge medical treatments can balloon in the US healthcare system. —Dana Taylor, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026

New Directors Competition Be at the cutting edge of world cinema and take a little risk in your viewing. —Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 15 Apr. 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