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

With no sharp cutting edges, the Vulyx is claimed to be TSA-compliant. — Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 2 July 2026

More From Forbes ByAlex Knapp Alex Knapp is a senior editor covering healthcare, science, and cutting edge technology who joined Forbes in 2011. — Amy Feldman, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026

Joe Prince-Wright breaks down England's win over Panama to secure first place in Group L with Jude Bellingham providing the cutting edge to beat a sticky Panama side and showed what his impact can be moving forward. — Andrew Greif, NBC news, 28 June 2026

Instead of a definitive ranking, this list highlights seven of the world’s most advanced and capable air defense systems, each representing the cutting edge of its class. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 28 June 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