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Sharpen: meaning, definitions and examples

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sharpen

 

[ ˈʃɑːpən ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

tool

To make or become sharp or sharper. To improve or perfect a skill or ability.

Synonyms

enhance, hone, improve

Examples of usage

  • He sharpened the knife before cutting the vegetables.
  • She practiced every day to sharpen her tennis skills.
Context #2 | Verb

focus

To make something more focused, intense, or effective.

Synonyms

clarify, enhance, intensify

Examples of usage

  • The workshop helped sharpen their understanding of the topic.
  • The feedback from the coach sharpened her performance.
Context #3 | Noun

pencil

A device used for sharpening pencils by shaving away the wood to expose the graphite core.

Synonyms

pencil sharpener, point maker

Examples of usage

  • He used a sharpener to create a fine point on his pencil.
  • She always carried a sharpener in her pencil case.

Translations

Translations of the word "sharpen" in other languages:

🇵🇹 afiar

🇮🇳 तेज़ करना

🇩🇪 schärfen

🇮🇩 mengasah

🇺🇦 гострити

🇵🇱 ostrzyć

🇯🇵 研ぐ (とぐ)

🇫🇷 aiguiser

🇪🇸 afilar

🇹🇷 bilemek

🇰🇷 날카롭게 하다

🇸🇦 شحذ

🇨🇿 ostřit

🇸🇰 ostrý

🇨🇳 磨快 (mó kuài)

🇸🇮 ostriti

🇮🇸 brýna

🇰🇿 өткірлеу

🇬🇪 ლესვა

🇦🇿 itişdirmək

🇲🇽 afilar

Word origin

The word 'sharpen' originated from the Old English word 'scearpian', which means 'to make sharp'. The concept of sharpening tools or skills has been essential throughout human history, from sharpening hunting tools for survival to sharpening one's mind for intellectual pursuits. The verb 'sharpen' has evolved to encompass not only physical sharpness but also mental acuity and focus.

See also: sharp, sharpener, sharper, sharpie, sharply, sharpness, sharpshooter.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,459, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.