sharpen

verb

sharp·​en ˈshär-pən 

sharpened; sharpening ˈshär-pə-niŋ 

ˈshärp-niŋ

transitive verb

: to make sharp or sharper

especially : hone

intransitive verb

: to become sharp or sharper

sharpener

ˈshär-pə-nər 

ˈshärp-nər

noun

Synonyms

• edge
• grind
• hone
• stone
• strop
• whet

Examples of sharpen in a Sentence

Can you sharpen the image?

The lecture sharpened my understanding of the topic.

The outlines of the mountains sharpened as we got closer.

Recent Examples on the Web

In that spirit, here are 11 essential tips to sharpen your skills, take the edge of the early slog, and unlock your full potential while going medieval on demons. —Matt Gardner, Forbes.com, 14 May 2025

That framework could be exactly what Mbappé needs to sharpen his decision-making and maximize his presence in the final third. —Brett Koremenos, New York Times, 13 May 2025

The 2023 lottery pick is ready to sharpen his skills in the offseason for his third year in the league. —Jason Beede, The Orlando Sentinel, 9 May 2025

The stainless steel blade is tough, holds an edge well, and doesn't need to be sharpened often. —Molly Higgins, Wired News, 2 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Phrases Containing sharpen

• sharpen up

Rhymes for sharpen

• tarpon
• pilocarpine

Kids Definition

sharpen

verb

sharp·​en ˈshär-pən 

sharpened; sharpening ˈshärp-(ə-)niŋ 

1

: to make or become sharp or sharper

sharpen a pencil

a better lens sharpened the image

pain that suddenly sharpened

2

: improve

sharpen one's skills

sharpener

ˈshärp-(ə-)nər 

noun