sharpen

verb

sharp·​en ˈshär-pən How to pronounce sharpen (audio)
sharpened; sharpening ˈshär-pə-niŋ How to pronounce sharpen (audio)
ˈshärp-niŋ
Synonyms of sharpennext

transitive verb

: to make sharp or sharper
especially : hone

intransitive verb

: to become sharp or sharper
sharpener
ˈshär-pə-nər How to pronounce sharpen (audio)
ˈshärp-nər
noun

Synonyms of sharpen

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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
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.
These prescription stimulants can sharpen focus by prompting the brain to release more neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which play an important role in the body’s fight-or-flight response. — Jen Christensen, CNN Money, 29 Aug. 2026 The Sun conjoins Mercury in Virgo and your 3rd House of Communication, sharpening texts, calls, emails, errands, sibling dynamics, and daily logistics. — Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 Aug. 2026 This is partly what propels his mole demi-glace, a convergence of inspirations realized in a duck and smoked chicken stock sharpened by the foundational components of mole. — Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 27 Aug. 2026 Truist focused on growth Truist has been sharpening its strategic focus on growth and performance. — Charlotte Observer, 27 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sharpen

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of sharpen was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing sharpen

Rhymes for sharpen

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Browse Nearby Words

shar-pei
sharpen
sharpener
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Cite this Entry

“Sharpen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sharpen. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

sharpen

verb
sharp·​en ˈshär-pən How to pronounce sharpen (audio)
sharpened; sharpening ˈshärp-(ə-)niŋ How to pronounce sharpen (audio)
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 How to pronounce sharpen (audio)
noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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