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Definitions

sharpen

[shahr-puhn] / ˈʃɑr pən /
VERB
make knifelike
Synonyms
STRONGEST
file grind hone strop whet
STRONG
acuminate make acute make sharp put a point on put an edge on taper
Antonyms
WEAK
blunt dull
VERB
improve
Synonyms
STRONGEST
better enhance fine-tune improve perfect polish polish up
WEAK
make improvements tune up

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"Our hope is that this work will refine our view of past warmer climates and sharpen our understanding of how different elements of the Earth system interact," said Marks-Peterson.

From Science Daily • Apr. 24, 2026

"We have some of the best human capital anywhere in the world. We just need to sharpen it with more training," Ruto added.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

Adjust the acid if needed; a final flick of lemon or pickle juice can sharpen everything into focus.

From Salon • Apr. 14, 2026

A subsidy can cushion demand and sharpen marketing; it can’t manufacture newborns.

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

We had to wait for someone to bring a knife to sharpen it because Miss Engel is not allowed to leave me by myself.

From "Code Name Verity" by Elizabeth Wein