edgy

adjective

ˈe-jē 

edgier; edgiest

1

: having an edge : sharp

2

a

: being on edge : tense, irritable

b

: characterized by tension

edgy negotiations

3

: having a bold, provocative, or unconventional quality

an edgy film

edgily

ˈe-jə-lē 

adverb

edginess

ˈe-jē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms

• worried
• nervous
• anxious
• upset
• uneasy
• troubled
• apprehensive

Examples of edgy in a Sentence

Too much coffee makes me edgy.

Why are you so edgy?

Their relationship has always been edgy.

one of the director's edgier films

Recent Examples on the Web

The model seems to, in automotive terms, refine the stylistic conventions of the 1950s while perfectly complementing Britain’s edgier Mod ethos of the subsequent decade. —Viju Mathew, Robb Report, 27 Oct. 2025

Conner Ives x Jimmy Choo Leopard-Print Boots Jimmy Choo and Conner Ives joined forces this season to provide the fashion set with an edgy, yet playful, arsenal of footwear options for fall. —Cortne Bonilla, Vogue, 24 Oct. 2025

Rothy’s The Max Buckle Mary Jane The single fashion item that stood out to me the most from my trip was a pair of red Mary Janes worn by a person on the bus, adorned with edgy gold hardware. —Erin Cavoto, Travel + Leisure, 23 Oct. 2025

While South Audley has works by Warhol, Cocteau and Kaye Donachie, the art in the Sloane Street store is edgier. —Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 23 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1775, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for edgy

• pledgee
• veggie

Kids Definition

edgy

adjective

ˈej-ē 

edgier; edgiest

1

: having an edge : sharp

2

: tense entry 2 sense 2, irritable

spoke with an edgy tone

edgily

ˈej-ə-lē 

adverb

edginess

ˈej-ē-nəs 

noun