VocabDictionary

edge

/ɛdʒ/beginner Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The outside limit of an object, area, or surface; a place farthest from the center.

Example Sentences:
  • She sat on the very edge of the cliff, looking down at the ocean.
  • Draw a straight line along the edge of the ruler.
2.noun

A gradual, cautious move in a specified direction.

Example Sentences:
  • He managed to gain an edge over his competitors in the final quarter.
  • Her voice had a sharp edge of irritation.
3.verb

To move slowly and with gradual increments in a particular direction.

Example Sentences:
  • The car began to edge forward as the traffic light turned green.
  • She edged closer to the door, hoping to slip out unnoticed.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “edge”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from Old English 'ecg' (meaning sword-edge, sharpness), which comes from Proto-Germanic '*agjō-' (sharp edge or point), ultimately tracing back to the Indo-European root '*ak-' meaning 'be sharp' or 'rise to a point'. Cognates include Latin 'acies' (sharp edge) and Greek 'akmē' (point).

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a sharp SWORD's EDGE to remember the physical boundary or sharpness of an object.

Rhyming Words

Frequently Asked Questions About “edge

1. What is the meaning of “edge” in English?

In English, edge (noun) is defined as: “The outside limit of an object, area, or surface; a place farthest from the center.”.

2. How do you use “edge” in a sentence?

She sat on the very edge of the cliff, looking down at the ocean.

3. What are English synonyms of “edge”?

Common synonyms include:border,margin,rim,brink,verge

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “edge”?

Derived from Old English 'ecg' (meaning sword-edge, sharpness), which comes from Proto-Germanic '*agjō-' (sharp edge or point), ultimately tracing back to the Indo-European root '*ak-' meaning 'be sharp' or 'rise to a point'. Cognates include Latin 'acies' (sharp edge) and Greek 'akmē' (point).