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 Artemis team worked closely with Rondal, Royal Huisman’s composites and spars subsidiary, to create Aera’s giant, one-of-a-kind sail with a leading edge shaped like an airfoil and a total surface area measuring 2,640 square feet. —Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 20 Dec. 2025

Traveling over five times the speed of sound generates immense friction and drag, resulting in the leading edges reaching temperatures beyond 1,650 °C (3,000 °F). —New Atlas, 2 Dec. 2025

The leading edge today begins with introspection, and workflows become the foundation for practical agentic design. —Jessica Billingsley, Rolling Stone, 26 Nov. 2025

This high-power laser will see our Royal Navy at the leading edge of innovation in NATO, delivering a cutting-edge capability to help defend the UK and our allies in this new era of threat. —MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Nov. 2025

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