: very obvious and sharp
a clear-cut distinction
: free from doubt or uncertainty : very definite
a clear-cut victory/decision
The difference between their views on this issue is not clear-cut.
plural clear-cuts
US
: an area of land in which all the trees have been cut down
The law limits the size of clear-cuts.
clear-cuts; clear-cut; clear-cutting
US
: to cut down all the trees in (an area)
Ten years ago the lumber company clear-cut this hillside.
Cite this Entry
“Clear-cut.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/clear-cut. Accessed 22 Jul. 2026.
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