SHARPENER Synonyms: 15 Similar and Opposite Words

sharpen

verb

ˈshär-pən

Definition of sharpen

as in to grind

to make sharp or sharper you need to sharpen your penknife's blade frequently in order to be able to whittle properly

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of sharpen Hinduism is a narrative religion; its mercurial wisdom is lightened and sweetened by stories, softened by ambiguities, sharpened by paradoxes. — Chandrahas Choudhury, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 July 2026 The understanding with Mbappe, always lightning quick to make his move, only sharpens the most dangerous connection at the World Cup. — Thom Harris, New York Times, 4 July 2026 Washington’s scrutiny has sharpened in recent weeks, with federal officials intervening in model releases on national-security grounds and state attorneys general opening investigations. — James Broughel, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026 Loose waves and smudged eye makeup, sharpened with pink at the inner corners, kept the effect closer to one of her stage looks. — Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for sharpen

Recent Examples of Synonyms for sharpen

Verb

These matchups are intense and, usually, grind-it-out battles of attrition between two proud soccer nations.

— Ben Church, CNN Money, 6 July 2026
Then, Djokovic had the skills to blow his opponents away, but could also grind them down if needed, knowing that his superior fitness and durability would more than likely win out.

— Charlie Eccleshare, New York Times, 5 July 2026

Definition of grind

Verb

Participants gain real-world experience in agriculture, hospitality, customer service and food preparation — all while honing their ability to communicate in English with customers and coworkers.

— Madeleine Kashkooli, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 July 2026
Hill honed her skills in 2016 by enrolling at the College of the Canyons Institute for Culinary Education in Santa Clarita, California.

— Karla Walsh, CNN Money, 3 July 2026

Definition of hone

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sharped

sharpen

sharpened

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“Sharpen.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sharpen. Accessed 11 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of sharpen

verb

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