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leading edge

noun \ ˈlē-diŋ- \

Definition of leading edge

1 : the forward part of something that moves or seems to move
2 : the foremost edge of an airfoil
3 : cutting edge
—

leading-edge

play \ˈlē-diŋ-ˈej\ adjective

See leading edge defined for English-language learners

Examples of leading edge in a Sentence

  1. the leading edge of an airplane's wing

  2. the leading edge of a thunderstorm

Recent Examples of leading edge from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'leading edge.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of leading edge

1877

in the meaning defined at sense 1

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leading edge Synonyms

Synonyms

cutting edge, forefront, front line, van, vanguard;

Related Words

spearhead;

LEADING EDGE Defined for English Language Learners

leading edge

noun

Definition of leading edge for English Language Learners

  • : the front edge of something that moves

  • : the most important or advanced area of activity in a particular field

Learn More about leading edge

  1. See words that rhyme with leading edge Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for leading edge

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