Sharper
/ˈʃɑːrpər/
Definitions
2 meaningsHaving a cutting edge or point; able to cut or pierce easily; intense or severe; clearly defined or distinct.
/ˈʃɑːrpər/
More intense or severe; cutting
The winter wind felt sharper than usual.
💡 Simply: Imagine a knife. Now, imagine a knife that's EVEN BETTER at cutting things. That's sharper! It can also mean something is more intense or easily noticed.
👶 For kids: It means something is able to cut things really well, like a sharp knife. It can also mean something is more noticeable.
More Examples
His wit was sharper than his opponent's.
The economic downturn created a sharper decline in sales.
How It's Used
"The wind grew sharper as we climbed higher."
"The competition is getting sharper, requiring us to innovate."
Quick-witted; clever; intelligent.
/ˈʃɑːrpər/
More clever or intelligent
The detective's mind was sharper than ever during the investigation.
💡 Simply: Think of someone who's really quick on their feet, always getting jokes and figuring things out. They're sharper! It's like their brain is a super-fast processor.
👶 For kids: It means you can think and understand things really quickly!
More Examples
After years of experience, his business acumen became sharper.
She was able to offer a sharper response to his criticism.
How It's Used
"She became sharper after taking the class."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
From Old English *scearpe* (sharp, keen), comparative form of *scearp*.
Used in similar contexts since Old English, evolving from describing physical objects to abstract concepts like intelligence.
Memory tip
Think of a knife, then imagine something MORE like a knife - it is sharper!
Word Origin
"sharp, keen"