cutting edge

noun

1. the sharp edge of a cutting implement.

2. forefront; lead.

   on the cutting edge of computer technology.

cutting edge

noun

1. the leading position in any field; forefront

   on the cutting edge of space technology

adjective

1. at the forefront of people or things in a field of activity; leading

   cutting-edge technology

Other Word Forms

• cutting-edge adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of cutting edge¹

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

For decades, Wylie Dufresne worked at the cutting edge of haute cuisine, dreaming up high-concept dishes like deconstructed eggs Benedict or cubes of aerated foie gras.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

People heading to Greenland now are on the “cutting edge of travel,” Quayle said.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Land art was then at the cutting edge of avant-garde activity.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Maeda is being played out of position to accommodate Tounekti, while every midfield combination Rodgers has tried has lacked cutting edge and energy.

Read more on BBC

"We need to be looking at some of the newer things - maybe vaccines, maybe immunotherapy: things that are at the cutting edge of cancer treatment," he said.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• forefront 
• front line 
• vanguard