sharpen

[shahr-puhn]

verb (used with or without object)

1. to make or become sharp or sharper. sharp.

sharpen

/ ˈʃɑːpən /

verb

1. to make or become sharp or sharper

2. Usual US and Canadian word: sharp. music to raise the pitch of (a note), esp by one chromatic semitone

Other Word Forms

• sharpener noun
• presharpen verb (used with object)
• resharpen verb
• unsharpened adjective
• unsharpening adjective
• well-sharpened adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of sharpen¹

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50; sharp, -en ¹

Example Sentences

“But the old adage — iron sharpens iron. I do think we’re better for the adversity ... I’m excited for what’s to come.”

From Los Angeles Times

Her prose is infectiously funny, and her ability to satirize rich people paying silly amounts of money to be led to their souls has only sharpened.

From Los Angeles Times

For the next two hours, Stringer roved the room, pausing to sharpen pencils or praise participants’ designs.

From Los Angeles Times

Alongside these practical daily strategies, Dr T also recommends using his Swans acronym to support brain health and sharpen focus.

From BBC

Family members seethe, assistants cower and competitors sharpen their claws.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• better 
• enhance 
• fine-tune 
• improve 
• perfect 
• polish 
• polish up