Sharpness
/ˈʃɑːpnəs/
Definitions
The degree to which something is sharp, or the ability to perceive things keenly.
/ˈʃɑːpnəs/
The quality or state of being sharp; keenness.
The sharpness of the blade allowed him to shave with ease.
💡 Simply: Think of a knife that cuts really well - that's sharpness. Or, if someone is really clever and quick with their answers, they have a sharpness of mind. It's about being able to perceive and react quickly and clearly.
👶 For kids: Sharpness is how well something can cut or how smart someone is.
More Examples
The detective noticed the sharpness in her voice, indicating she knew more than she was letting on.
The camera's sharpness was outstanding; every detail was perfectly captured.
How It's Used
"The sharpness of the knife made it easy to slice through the vegetables."
"Her sharpness of wit was evident in her quick and clever replies."
"The sharpness of the image on the new monitor was impressive."
Idioms & expressions
a sharpness of tongue
The quality of speaking in a critical or sarcastic way.
"Her remarks, though witty, sometimes had a sharpness of tongue that offended people."
From Middle English *sharpnesse*, from Old English *sċearpnes* ('sharpness, keenness'), equivalent to *sharp* + *-ness*.
The word 'sharpness' has been used since the Middle Ages to describe the quality of being sharp in a variety of contexts, initially referring to physical attributes and later extending to intellect and perception.
Memory tip
Think of how keenly you can feel a sharp object or how quickly you can understand a complicated subject.
Word Origin
"Quality or state of being sharp."