Sharpening
ˈʃɑːrpənɪŋ
Definitions
2 meaningsThe act of making something sharper, especially a blade or an edge.
ˈʃɑːrpənɪŋ
Making something sharper
The barber was sharpening his razor.
💡 Simply: It's like making a dull knife or pencil point pointy and ready to use! You’re making something better at cutting or writing.
👶 For kids: Making something pointy so it can cut or write better. Like making your pencil sharp!
More Examples
The chef is sharpening his knives before dinner service.
Sharpening your skills can increase your chances of success.
How It's Used
"The carpenter was sharpening his chisel."
"She was sharpening the knife to cut the vegetables."
"He was sharpening his negotiation skills."
The act or process of making something sharper.
ˈʃɑːrpənɪŋ
The process of making something sharper
The sharpening of the axe required great skill.
💡 Simply: It’s the act of making something sharper, like when you're in the process of making your pencil pointy.
👶 For kids: When you are making something pointy!
More Examples
The sharpening of the debate led to further conflict.
Regular sharpening is key to maintaining a sharp blade.
How It's Used
"The sharpening of the knife was essential."
"The sharpening of political tensions was evident."
From Middle English *sharpenen*, from Old English *sċearpian* (“to sharpen”), from Proto-Germanic *skarpaną* (“to make sharp”).
The word 'sharpening' has been used in texts since at least the 14th century, reflecting the widespread importance of tools and edges.
Memory tip
Think of a pencil, a knife, or your focus: all need sharpening to work better.
Word Origin
"to make sharp"