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.

Over time, this can improve discipline, sharpen strategy, and lead to more consistent decision-making.

From Barron's • Jun. 24, 2026

You can sharpen your strengths and prune a position into something that you truly enjoy.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 22, 2026

Fortunately, we saw enough to sharpen up a list of favorites.

From Los Angeles Times • May 22, 2026

“No,” I lied, and got up to sharpen my pencil.

From "The Lions of Little Rock" by Kristin Levine