knife edge

American  

noun

1. the cutting edge of a knife.

2. anything very sharp.

3. a wedge on the fine edge of which a scale beam, pendulum, or the like, balances or oscillates.

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knife edge British  

noun

1. the sharp cutting edge of a knife

2. any sharp edge

3. a sharp-edged wedge of hard material on which the beam of a balance pivots or about which a pendulum is suspended

4. a critical point in the development of a situation, process of making a decision, etc

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Etymology

Origin of knife edge

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

knife edge

Nevertheless, investors should watch Bitcoin through the long weekend with the Middle East situation on a knife edge and market-moving news all but inevitable.

From Barron's ● Apr. 3, 2026

Supporters have said the success of Glyndŵr National Park was "on a knife edge", with the Senedd election adding further uncertainty.

From BBC ● Mar. 26, 2026

"I've never played a golf course as hard. Every shot is on a knife edge."

From BBC ● Jun. 12, 2025

A series that was on a knife edge until its final seconds featured funding battles, scrambles for flights and accommodation, a tour manager carrying £29,000 in a briefcase, disappearing kit and emotional phone calls home.

From BBC ● Feb. 27, 2025

Thus the tropical forest, despite its fabulous vitality, exists on a knife edge.

From "1491" by Charles C. Mann

Related Words

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