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

One detail found in various shoes was a metal ring that lent an edgy element to various silhouettes, from the aforementioned sandal to a heeled sandal, which embodied dainty minimalism with an asymmetrical strap. —Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 6 Oct. 2025

At night, try layering an edgy leather bomber jacket over a romantic slip dress—the contrasting silhouettes work surprisingly well together. —Kelsey Stewart, Glamour, 3 Oct. 2025

And now Jackson, who has looked unsettled and edgy in recent weeks, is dealing with a hamstring injury that could sideline him for a game or two. —Jeff Zrebiec, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2025

Known for her commanding stage presence, Hendrix leaned into the song’s edgy vibe with sharp lines and dramatic flair. —Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Sep. 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