What does sharp mean?
Sharp describes something with a fine edge or pointed quality, but the word is also used metaphorically for things that are acute, clear, sudden, or keenly observed. A sharp knife cuts easily; a sharp observer notices small details; a sharp increase is pronounced and abrupt; and a sharp question is direct and perceptive. The adjective can also describe a person's quick thinking or an unfriendly, critical manner. As an adverb, sharp means sharply or abruptly, as in a curve that bends sharply. As a verb, it means to make something keener or more effective, especially an ability, skill, or instrument. Because sharp combines physical precision with mental and stylistic implications, it is useful whenever an action, observation, change, or tone is notably keen, distinct, or forceful.
Having a fine or pointed edge; keen, acute, clear, sudden, or intellectually perceptive.
"The photograph was in sharp focus, revealing every detail of the bird's feathers."
The adjective has several distinct figurative senses, including sudden or pronounced, clear, and somewhat critical.
In a sudden, steep, or pronounced manner; also, informally, at a high rate or with intensity.
"The road turned sharply around the hillside."
Often used after a verb such as rise, fall, turn, bend, or drop.
To make or become sharper, more acute, or more skilful.
"Regular practice sharpened her ability to identify the birds quickly."
The verb is commonly figurative, describing the improvement of a skill, sense, argument, or instrument.
A sharp or acute point; also, informal, a clever or witty person.
"The blade was tested by running a finger carefully along its sharp."
The informal sense of a clever person is chiefly used in British and Irish English and is now relatively informal.
A sharp mind cuts through complexity with the precision of a fine blade.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of sharp
The word comes from Old English scearp, related to an Old Norse word meaning sharp or pointed. Its Germanic relatives reflect a common meaning concerning a pointed edge or a clear, acute quality. The adjective developed figurative senses for keen perception, clear reasoning, and abrupt change, while the adverb and verb forms arose from these established usages.
Related word forms
How sharp is actually used
Sharp is highly versatile. In phrases such as sharp focus and sharp decline, it denotes a clear or abrupt distinction. Sharp criticism can sound critical but not necessarily cruel, while a sharp person may be alert, perceptive, or somewhat testy depending on context.
Easily confused with sharp
Sharp describes an object or quality that is already keen, pointed, or clear, whereas sharpen describes the act of making it sharper.
Sharp usually suggests a keen edge, acute perception, or abrupt change, while harsh suggests severity, roughness, or lack of kindness.