ʃɑ:p adj., n., adv., & v. --adj. 1 having an
edge or
point able to
cut or
pierce. 2 tapering to a point or edge. 3
abrupt, steep,
angular (a sharp
fall; a sharp turn). 4 well-defined, clean-cut. 5 a
severe or
intense (has a sharp temper). b (of
food etc.)
pungent, keen (a sharp appetite). c (of a frost) severe,
hard. 6 (of a
voice or sound)
shrill and piercing. 7 (of
sand etc.) composed of angular grains. 8 (of words or
temper etc.)
harsh or
acrimonious (had a sharp tongue). 9 (of a person)
acute;
quick to
perceive or
comprehend. 10 quick to
take advantage;
artful,
unscrupulous,
dishonest. 11
vigorous or
brisk. 12 Mus. a
above the normal pitch. b (of a key) having a sharp or sharps in the
signature. c (C, F,
etc., sharp) a
semitone higher
than C, F, etc. 13 colloq.
stylish or
flashy with regard to
dress. --n. 1 Mus. a a
note raised a semitone above
natural pitch. b the
sign (**) indicating
this. 2 colloq. a swindler or
cheat. 3 a fine sewing-needle. --adv. 1 punctually (at
nine o'clock sharp). 2 suddenly, abruptly, promptly (pulled up sharp). 3 at a sharp
angle. 4 Mus. above the
true pitch (sings sharp). --v. 1 intr.
archaic cheat or
swindle at cards etc. 2 tr. US Mus.
make sharp. øsharp
end colloq. 1 the bow of a
ship. 2 the
scene of
direct action or
decision. sharp
practice dishonest or
barely honest dealings. sharp-set 1 set with a sharp edge. 2
hungry. øøsharply adv. sharpness n. [OE sc(e)arp f. Gmc]