cutting edge

American  

noun

1. the sharp edge of a cutting implement.

2. forefront; lead.

   on the cutting edge of computer technology.

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cutting edge British  

noun

1. the leading position in any field; forefront

   on the cutting edge of space technology

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adjective

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

   cutting-edge technology

Other Word Forms

• cutting-edge adjective

Etymology

Origin of cutting edge

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

While a handful of star researchers on the cutting edge of science attract federal grants in the tens-of-millions of dollars, faculty in the social sciences and humanities often struggle to generate six figures.

From The Wall Street Journal

It is also calculated to get rid of the old guard and bring in fresh faces who can take China’s military to the cutting edge.

From The Wall Street Journal

"Without doubt, there is a lack of cutting edge at Celtic," Stewart said.

From BBC

Some companies are already pushing to the cutting edge of AI defense—providing examples others should follow.

From The Wall Street Journal

She is operating at the cutting edge of winter sports game theory.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• forefront
• front line
• vanguard