leading edge

American  

[lee-ding] / ˈli dɪŋ /

noun

1. Aeronautics. the edge of an airfoil or propeller blade facing the direction of motion.

2. something that is or represents the most advanced or innovative aspect of a field, activity, profession, etc.; forefront; vanguard.

   the leading edge of technology.

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leading edge British  

/ ˈliːdɪŋ /

noun

1. the forward edge of a propeller blade, aerofoil, or wing Compare trailing edge

2. electrical engineering the part of a pulse signal that has an increasing amplitude

3. 1. the leading position in any field

   2. ( as modifier )

      leading-edge technology

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Other Word Forms

• leading-edge adjective

Etymology

Origin of leading edge

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

"It had been assumed that faults follow the leading edge of the subducting slab, but this example deviates from that," Materna said.

From Science Daily

Boston Scientific is at the leading edge of technological advancement.

From Barron's

They worried about allowing American firms to sell Chinese customers chips that are at or near the leading edge in terms of computing capability.

From The Wall Street Journal

Root eventually offered a leading edge to a diving Neser in the bowler's follow-through, part of England's final collapse of 4-9.

From BBC

Defence Secretary John Healey said the overhaul will put Britain at the "leading edge of military innovation".

From BBC

Related Words

• cutting edge
• forefront
• vanguard