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

Whether these cases are isolated incidents or the leading edge of something far more consequential is a question that law enforcement and researchers are only beginning to confront. — Elizabeth Robinson, NBC news, 7 July 2026

By this point, the city had become the leading edge of a national issue. — Joaquin Sapien, ProPublica, 30 June 2026

The leading edge of the plume is expected to reach the western Gulf Coast first, with early impacts along the Texas shoreline before spreading east toward Louisiana and other Gulf states. — Brandi D. Addison, USA Today, 26 June 2026

The company will evaluate applications for nose cones, fins, leading edges, bulkheads, and other high-performance structures that require precision and durability. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 22 June 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