Edge

/ɛdʒ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The boundary line or the area immediately adjoining a physical object.

She stood at the edge of the cliff, looking down at the ocean.

A sharp side formed by the intersection of two surfaces.

Be careful with that knife; it has a very sharp edge.

A favorable or advantageous position.

The team needs to find a way to gain the edge over their competitors.

The degree of intensity or sharpness in a situation.

The tension in the room gave the meeting an edge that was hard to ignore.

verb

To move gradually or cautiously at the boundary or limit.

He edged closer to the fire to feel its warmth.

To advance or proceed slowly and carefully.

They edged their way through the crowd.

Middle English 'egge', from Old English 'ecg', meaning 'edge, sword, or point'.

cutting edge:

refers to the forefront of technological development or innovation.

on the edge:

means being in a state of uncertainty or risk.

edge out:

to defeat someone narrowly or to gain an advantage over them.

To be on the razor's edge; to be in a precarious or risky situation.

He's living on the edge with his risky investments.

To have an edge over someone in a competition or performance.

After that last game, I've really got the edge in this rivalry.