Edge Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
ðŠ
edge
[ÉdĘ ]
Definitions
of a cliff
The sharp side or surface of something, especially of a blade or cutting implement.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| edge |
Used to describe the outside limit of an object, area, or surface. Often implies sharpness or a thin line. Can also refer to being on the verge of something, like an emotion or a situation.
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| border |
Typically used to describe the division between two areas, especially between countries or regions. Less about physical sharpness and more about political or administrative demarcation.
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| boundary |
Refers to an invisible line that marks the limits of an area, often in a more abstract or conceptual sense, such as personal space or ethical limits.
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| rim |
Describes the edge of something round or circular, often a container or natural formation like a crater.
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Examples of usage
- The knife had a razor-sharp edge.
- The car teetered on the edge of the cliff.
of a surface
The outside limit of an object, area, or surface; a place or part farthest away from the center of something.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| edge |
Use when referring to the boundary or outermost part of an object or area. It can also mean the sharp side of a blade.
|
| brink |
Often used in a metaphorical sense to indicate being on the verge of something, especially something significant or potentially dangerous.
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| margin |
Commonly used to refer to the blank space around the text on a page, or a small amount of something. It can also mean a difference or amount by which something is won or lost.
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| perimeter |
Best used in a more technical or mathematical context to describe the continuous line forming the boundary of a closed geometrical figure or area. It can also mean the boundary itself in a more general sense.
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Examples of usage
- She sat on the edge of the bed.
- The garden was on the edge of the forest.
of a situation
Be on the point of doing or achieving something.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| edge |
Use this word to describe being very close to the border or boundary of something.
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| close |
Use this word to describe being at a short distance from someone or something. It can refer to both physical and emotional proximity.
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| near |
This word describes being at a small distance from something. It is often interchangeable with 'close,' but 'near' is more general and less about emotional closeness.
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| approach |
This word is best used when describing the action of moving closer to something or someone. It implies a process or gradual movement.
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Examples of usage
- She was on edge after hearing the news.
- We are on the edge of a major breakthrough.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In geometry, an edge is a line where two surfaces meet, such as in a cube where the faces intersect.
- The concept of an edge is important in graph theory, where it refers to a connection between two nodes, affecting network analysis.
- The edge effect in ecology describes how ecosystems change at the boundary between two different habitats, impacting biodiversity.
Pop Culture
- The term 'living on the edge' has become a popular phrase in songs and literature, suggesting a lifestyle that embraces risk and excitement.
- In video games and movies, characters who operate on the 'edge' often showcase daring adventures, portraying themes of thrill and danger.
- The band U2 has a famous guitarist known as The Edge, symbolizing innovation and creativity in music.
Psychology
- The 'edge' can refer to a mental state of being on the brink of something, like achieving goals or overcoming fears.
- In therapeutic contexts, the 'edge' might represent a threshold of change, encapsulating the idea of stepping out of comfort zones.
- People often seek out experiences at the edge of their emotional or physical limits to gain new perspectives or personal growth.
Literature
- In literature, characters often find themselves at the edge of decisions or conflicts, highlighting moments of tension and resolution.
- Edgy literature, a genre focusing on controversial topics and risky ideas, often pushes readers to confront societal norms.
- Metaphorically, the edge serves as a symbol of boundary-crossing in stories, representing growth, danger, or transformation.
Origin of 'edge'
Main points about word origin
- Derived from the Old English 'ÃĶcg,' meaning 'sword blade' or 'sharpness,' reflecting the idea of something being sharp or distinct.
- In Middle English, 'egge' was used to refer to the edge of blades, showing the long-standing connection to sharpness.
- The term has evolved to include meanings related to boundaries and margins in both physical and metaphorical contexts.
The word 'edge' originated from the Old English word 'ecg', meaning 'a cutting edge of a tool or weapon'. Over time, the meaning expanded to include the outer limit or brink of something. The concept of 'edge' has been fundamental in human history, from the use of sharp edges in tools and weapons to the metaphorical edge of a situation or boundary.