language note: The spelling cutting-edge is used for meaning [sense 3].
1. singular noun [usu at/on theNof n]
If you are at thecutting edgeof a particular field of activity, you are involved in its most important or most exciting developments.
This shipyard is at the cutting edge of world shipbuilding technology. [+ of]
2. singular noun
If someone or something gives you a cutting edge, they give you an advantage over your competitors.
He will give the team a cutting edge when it comes to the race for the championship.
3. adjective [usually ADJECTIVE noun]
Cutting-edge techniques or equipment are the most advanced that there are in a particular field.
What we are planning is cutting-edge technology never seen in Australia before.
Some of what is happening at Packard is cutting-edge medicine.
cutting edge in British English
noun
1.
the leading position in any field; forefront
on the cutting edge of space technology
adjectivecutting-edge
2.
at the forefront of people or things in a field of activity; leading
cutting-edge technology
cutting-edge in British English
(ˌkʌtɪŋˈɛdʒ)
modifier
at the forefront of people or things in a field of activity; leading
the men and women doing the cutting-edge research
What we are planning is cutting-edge technology never seen in Australia before.
Some of what is happening at the lab is cutting-edge medicine.
Stockholm's reputation for cutting-edge design
cutting edge in American English
1.
the effective or decisive element
2.
the leading or most important position; forefront; vanguard
3.
the most advanced or innovative position; the avant-garde
Examples of 'cutting edge' in a sentence
cutting edge
Doctors need to listen to what patients want rather than using cutting edge technology for its own sake, it urges.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
We are supposed to remain cutting edge without using any outside idea agencies.
Scarlett Thomas POPCO (2002)
So it's not exactly what you'd call ` cutting edge ' journalism, but I really don't mind.
Isabel Wolff RESCUING ROSE (2002)
There are also fears for research into cutting-edge treatments.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
The cutting-edge design features a thin metal band running around the edge of the phone.
Times, Sunday Times (2010)
It draws on baroque themes as well as contemporary cutting-edge design.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
Do not expect cutting-edge design in the dozen bedrooms.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
But they are at the cutting-edge of rug design.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
Rarely has cutting-edge technology been so gentle.
Times, Sunday Times (2010)
All were uncovered or made with the help of cutting-edge science and technology.
Times, Sunday Times (2010)
These were the men and women doing the cutting-edge research dealing with dietary fat and coronary heart disease.
Kowalski, Robert E The 8-Week Cholesterol Cure (1990)
Drivers considering splashing out on a new car with cutting-edge technology that improves fuel economy should do their homework.
Times, Sunday Times (2012)
Imperial says that its new campus will be unique because it will harness the commercial value of its research in cutting-edge technologies.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
Business schools often emphasise the important role that their cutting-edge research and academic theories play in underpinning the business school learning experience.
Times, Sunday Times (2010)
Over the next four weeks we will feature cutting-edge research that will open up a new world of possibilities for using your brain.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
A mix of vibrant paintings and cutting-edge research explains the history of each hue.
Times, Sunday Times (2014)
We have protected research funding, encouraging universities to invest in cutting-edge research.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
This includes cutting-edge research into the production and performance of music, audio technology and acoustics.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
China can't get enough of cutting-edge design.
Times, Sunday Times (2015)
This is still an involving thriller, but the cutting-edge technology now looks a bit old hat.
The Sun (2008)
But the capital's most cutting-edge design names are not churning out their ideas in a downtown office complex.
Times, Sunday Times (2008)
Instead, cutting-edge medicine takes over.
The Sun (2006)
In the sciences most cutting-edge research in the UK is done by academics in universities.
Times, Sunday Times (2006)
Fast Exercise is based on cutting-edge scientific research that has shown you can get fit in about the time it takes to change into your gym clothes.
Times, Sunday Times (2014)
In other languages
cutting edge
British English: cutting edge NOUN
If you are at the cutting edge of a particular field of activity, you are involved in its most important or most exciting developments.
This shipyard is at the cutting edge of world shipbuilding technology.
American English: cutting edge
Brazilian Portuguese: ponta
Chinese: 前沿
European Spanish: vanguardia
French: pointe
German: Spitzenstellung
Italian: avanguardia
Japanese: 最先端
Korean: 제일선
European Portuguese: ponta
Latin American Spanish: vanguardia
British English: cutting edge ADJECTIVE
Cutting-edge techniques or equipment are the most advanced that there are in a particular field.
What we are planning is cutting-edge technology never seen in this country before.