Sharp

/ʃˈɑːp/

/ˈʃɑɹp/

Definition & Meaning of "sharp"

sharp

ADJECTIVE

having a point or edge that can pierce or cut something

barbed

pointed

prickly

pungent

spiky

Example

The hunter 's arrowhead was sharp, designed for clean and efficient kills.

The chef used a sharp knife to precisely slice through the ripe tomato, effortlessly separating it into thin, even slices.

able to understand and notice things quickly

alert

astute

canny

cautious

observant

Example

The detective remained sharp throughout the interrogation, catching every subtle clue.

He stayed sharp during the late-night meeting, ensuring no errors were overlooked.

having or made by a thin edge or sharp point; suitable for cutting or piercing

(of a person's style or clothes) dressy and fashionable, often conveying a sense of sophistication and elegance.

Example

The sharp dresser caught everyone's attention with his impeccable sense of style.

He always looks sharp in his tailored suits and polished shoes.

(of something seen or heard) clearly defined

marked by practical hardheaded intelligence

having a slightly higher pitch than the corresponding natural note

grating

jarring

raucous

shrill

strident

Example

The singer hit a sharp high note that resonated throughout the auditorium.

The pianist played a series of sharp chords, adding a sense of urgency to the music.

extremely steep

harsh

intense, sudden, and piercing discomfort, often linked to injuries or severe pain

Example

When she twisted her ankle, she felt a sharp pain shoot through it, making her gasp.

The sudden movement resulted in a sharp ache in his lower back, causing him to wince.

(of a musical note) a half step higher than a particular note

quick and forceful

very sudden and in great amount or degree

describing a flavor that is intense and tangy, often with a biting or pungent quality

acid

acidic

acidulent

acidulous

lemonlike

Example

The sharp flavor of the aged vinegar made the salad dressing stand out.

Her first bite of the radish revealed a sharpness that was unexpected.

sharp

ADVERB

in a manner that is abrupt or sudden

Sharp

NOUN

a long thin sewing needle with a sharp point

a symbol used to raise the pitch of a note by a half step

What is a "sharp"?

A sharp is a musical symbol that raises the pitch of a note by one half step, or one semitone. It is represented by the symbol "♯", which looks like a hashtag or pound sign. For example, if a note is C, placing a sharp in front of it changes it to C♯, which is slightly higher in pitch. Sharps are used to modify notes in music to achieve desired tonal effects and to fit within specific musical keys and scales.

Example

The composer included a sharp before the F note to indicate it should be played one half step higher.

The pianist carefully executed the sharp in the music to emphasize the key change.