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

The trustees’ projections also sharpen previous analytical alarms. —Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 9 June 2026

Exercise improves mental health by triggering mood-boosting brain chemicals, easing tension, improving sleep and sharpening focus, according to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America. —Samantha Agate, Sacbee.com, 9 June 2026

While obituary writers sharpen their pencils, the culture remains as alive and varied as ever. —John Kennedy, VIBE.com, 9 June 2026

If that fails, individual, sharpened crystal prisms can be deployed on command. —Dahlia Gallin Ramirez, New Yorker, 9 June 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