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Synonyms

honed

American  
[hohnd] / hoʊnd /

adjective

  1. sharpened on a hone or whetstone.

    Our julienne peeler has 12 honed blades for superfine cuts that will make your julienne vegetables look like a restaurant’s.

  2. made more acute or effective; improved or perfected.

    We finish our degrees with highly desirable, finely honed skills, including how to research, how to work hard, and how to think critically.

  3. (of a hole) enlarged with a hone.

    When it comes to the barrel of this rifle, the diameter uniformity and roundness of the honed bore are superb.


verb

  1. the simple past tense and past participle of hone.

Etymology

Origin of honed

hone 1 ( def. ) + -ed 2 ( def. )

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The two veterans have honed their timing during practices and conversations.

From Los Angeles Times

He honed a pinpoint midrange jump shot and studied opposing offenses to know exactly where to grab steals.

From The Wall Street Journal

Joe Buck, who worked 56 games alongside him, said that radio experience honed Collinsworth’s ability to be comfortable and conversational on air.

From Los Angeles Times

Yet, he has improved his approach, honed more consistent swing mechanics, and balanced out his platoon splits, batting .353 against left-handed pitching in 2025.

From Los Angeles Times

“That was when I honed in on everything.”

From Los Angeles Times