double-edged

adjective

dou·​ble-edged ˌdə-bəl-ˈejd 

1

: having two cutting edges

a double-edged knife

2

a

: having two components or aspects

a spy with a double-edged mission

b

: capable of being taken in two ways

a double-edged remark

Synonyms of double-edged

• dual
• binary
• twin

Examples of double-edged in a Sentence

the double-edged purpose of the sales promotion is to clear out existing stock and to attract new customers

her double-edged remark that she hoped that I ultimately got what I deserved

Recent Examples on the Web

Given the fact that more than 20 of her rapists are still roaming free, this fame may be double-edged. — Gaby Wood, Vogue, 21 Feb. 2026

To call a musician a virtuoso can be double-edged. — Justin Davidson, Vulture, 29 Apr. 2026

There, too, his advocacy is double-edged. — Mark Pazniokas, Hartford Courant, 23 Mar. 2026

The most consequential development of the past month is also the most double-edged. — Sebastian Widmann, Forbes.com, 2 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1552, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for double-edged

• alleged
• unpledged
• dredged
• edged
• fledged
• hedged
• pledged
• wedged