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.

Etymology

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

Common Phrases and Expressions

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.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

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.