leading edge

noun

ˈlē-diŋ- 

1

: the forward part of something that moves or seems to move

2

: the foremost edge of an airfoil

3

: cutting edge

leading-edge

ˈlē-diŋ-ˈej 

adjective

Synonyms of leading edge

• forefront

Examples of leading edge in a Sentence

the leading edge of an airplane's wing

the leading edge of a thunderstorm

Recent Examples on the Web

The second front will be the leading edge of the Arctic air that will send highs below freezing and lows in the single digits Friday into the weekend. —Dave Aguilera, CBS News, 22 Jan. 2026

Building a leading edge fab costs tens of billions of dollars, takes years, and requires technology that TSMC has spent decades perfecting. —Jon Markman, Forbes.com, 16 Jan. 2026

Lynwen’s ability to drive innovation with a clear strategic vision has kept the company on the leading edge during a period of massive technology shifts. —Mike Fleming Jr, Deadline, 15 Jan. 2026

To stay at the leading edge of play space development and changes, AAA State of Play regularly updates its catalog of innovative and inventive playground equipment options. —Connie Etemadi, USA Today, 5 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1877, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for leading edge

• allege
• straightedge
• dredge
• hedge
• ledge
• pledge
• sedge
• sledge
• wedge