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Cusp Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cusp

[kÊŒsp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

finance

A point of transition between two different states or conditions, especially an abrupt or significant one.

Synonyms

boundary, point, transition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cusp

Best used when describing a point of transition or a moment of change, especially in a metaphorical sense.

  • We are on the cusp of a technological revolution.
  • The country was on the cusp of war.
point

Used for specifying a precise moment or location in time or space.

  • She reached the highest point of the mountain.
  • At this point in the meeting, we should discuss our budget.
transition

Describes the process or period of changing from one state or condition to another.

  • The transition from childhood to adulthood can be challenging.
  • The company is in a period of transition.
boundary

Typically used to describe physical or metaphorical dividing lines or limits.

  • The farm is marked by natural boundaries like rivers and mountains.
  • There are boundaries in our friendship that shouldn't be crossed.

Examples of usage

  • The stock market seems to be at a cusp right now, with investors unsure of which way it will go.
  • She stood at the cusp of a new chapter in her life, filled with excitement and uncertainty.
Context #2 | Noun

anatomy

A pointed end where two curves meet, in particular the point on the crown of a tooth where the enamel becomes dentin.

Synonyms

edge, point, tip.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cusp

Used to indicate a critical point or a turning point where something is about to change.

  • She was on the cusp of a major breakthrough in her research
  • They stood on the cusp of a new era
point

Indicates an exact location, precise moment, or a sharp end of an object.

  • At this point, we need to make a decision
  • The pencil had a very sharp point
  • She made a compelling point in the debate
tip

Refers to the extreme end of a long, thin object. It can also imply giving advice or a small amount of extra money for service.

  • The tip of the knife was very sharp
  • Here are some cooking tips for beginners
  • She left a generous tip for the waiter
edge

Refers to the outer limit or boundary of an object, area, or surface. It can also mean being in a tense or just-about-to-change situation.

  • The cat carefully walked along the edge of the roof
  • He was on the edge of his seat during the entire movie
  • They were on the edge of despair

Examples of usage

  • The dentist pointed out the cusp on the X-ray, indicating where the cavity had formed.
  • The cusp of the tooth was chipped, causing some discomfort for the patient.
Context #3 | Noun

astrology

A point in the horoscope where a planet is in a particularly significant position, especially as it relates to another planet or an important angle in the chart.

Synonyms

intersection, junction, meeting point.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cusp

Used in a scientific or mathematical context to describe a point where two curves meet, without crossing, or a significant point of transition or change. It is often employed metaphorically to indicate a pivotal moment in time.

  • We are on the cusp of a major technological breakthrough.
  • The graph shows a cusp where the two lines almost touch.
intersection

Commonly used in everyday language to describe a point where two or more roads cross each other. In a broader context, it can also refer to the point where different ideas, cultures, or dimensions meet.

  • Turn left at the next intersection.
  • The intersection of science and art can lead to innovative solutions.
junction

Primarily used in transportation to describe a place where roads or railways meet or split. It can also be used metaphorically to signify a critical decision point or a converging area.

  • The train will stop at the next junction.
  • We are at a junction in our project where big decisions must be made.
meeting point

Used informally to describe a specific place where people agree to gather. It emphasizes the aspect of coming together rather than the physical properties of the location.

  • We agreed on the café as our meeting point.
  • The park serves as a common meeting point for local groups.

Examples of usage

  • The astrologer noted that Jupiter was on the cusp of the seventh house, indicating a time of partnership and collaboration.
  • People born on the cusp between two zodiac signs often exhibit characteristics of both.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In astronomy, the term is often used to describe the phase in the moon cycle when it transitions from new to full or vice versa.
  • In biology, a cusp is a pointed or rounded projection found on the surface of teeth, helping with the chewing process.
  • Cusp can refer to specific stages in the life cycle of organisms, marking changes in behavior or development.

Psychology

  • In psychological contexts, individuals may experience a 'cusp' when facing significant life changes, such as moving from childhood to adulthood.
  • The concept of a cusp can illustrate the tension between two opposing states or feelings, like confidence and doubt.
  • This term is used in personality tests to describe transitional stages of character traits in people.

Mathematics

  • In calculus, a cusp appears at points of non-differentiability, where the curve changes direction sharply.
  • A cubic curve can have multiple cusps, demonstrating interesting characteristics in polynomial functions.
  • The classification of singular points in algebraic geometry includes cusps, providing insight into complex shapes.

Cultural References

  • The term is often used in astrology to describe people born on the border between two zodiac signs, suggesting traits from both.
  • In literature, characters at a cusp often face pivotal decisions, emphasizing themes of growth and transformation.
  • The musical term 'cusp' can denote a moment of tension before a resolution in melodies.

Origin of 'cusp'

Main points about word origin

  • This term comes from the Latin word 'cuspis', meaning 'point' or 'sharp end'.
  • The usage of 'cusp' to describe a transitional state dates back to the early 19th century.
  • In mathematics, a cusp refers to a pointed end of a curve.

The word 'cusp' originated from the Latin word 'cuspis', meaning 'point' or 'tip'. It has been used in various fields such as finance, anatomy, and astrology to describe points of transition, meeting, or significance. The concept of 'cusp' is often associated with moments of change or convergence, symbolizing a shift from one state to another.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,921, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.