sharpen

1 of 2

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

sharpener

2 of 2

noun

sharp·​en·​er ˈshärp(ə)nər 

ˈshȧp(ə)nə(r

plural -s

: one that sharpens something (such as tools or gears): such as

a

: pencil sharpener

b

: one that sharpens the saws of linter machines

Synonyms of sharpen

Verb

• grind
• hone
• whet
• stone

Examples of sharpen in a Sentence

Verb

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

Verb

Mercury enters Leo and your 1st House of Self, sharpening your ideas, confidence, humor, and ability to make a memorable impression. — Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 9 Aug. 2026

Ask what others see, choose the most workable path, and let collaboration sharpen the idea. — Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 8 Aug. 2026

Dylan says the backing has sharpened rather than altered the band’s original ambitions. — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 7 Aug. 2026

That extra size collects far more light, sharpens detail (especially on planets) and gives brighter views of fainter deep sky objects. — Damian Peach, Space.com, 4 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

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