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 of sharpen

• grind
• hone
• whet
• stone

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

Under his leadership, the company sharpened its positioning and renewed the way the brands connect with customers around the world. — Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 12 Nov. 2026

Surprisingly, your carving knife isn’t the only thing that needs sharpening after regular use. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 12 Nov. 2026

Huang’s affair with a woman US intelligence officials allege is a Chinese spy will no doubt sharpen that scrutiny. — Kelsey Warner, semafor.com, 12 Nov. 2026

Trump’s comments Monday may sharpen that debate as the Senate moves forward with consideration of the bill. — Steve Mollman, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Nov. 2026

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