Sharpen

/ˈʃɑːr.pən/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To make or become sharp or sharper.

I need to sharpen my knives before the big dinner party.

To enhance or improve, especially in quality or clarity.

She decided to sharpen her skills in painting by taking an advanced class.

To make more intense or focused.

The teacher encouraged students to sharpen their arguments in the debate.

Middle English, from Old English scearpian, akin to the word sharp.

sharpen one's skills

To improve or refine one's abilities.

sharpen the focus

To make something clearer or more distinct.

sharpen one's wits

To make oneself more alert and aware.

sharp

Having an edge or point that is able to cut or pierce something.

knife

A tool used for cutting, typically consisting of a blade and a handle.

point

The sharp end of an object, typically one that is designed to penetrate.

To enhance something.

He needs to sharpen his skills if he wants to get that promotion.

To prepare or get ready.

I'm just sharpening for the big presentation.