noun
sharpener
SHAH-puh-nuh
Sharpener (noun) means a tool or device used to make something sharp, such as a pencil sharpener or knife sharpener. Example: “The pencil snapped inside the sharpener.”
noun
1
A tool or device used to make something sharp, such as a pencil sharpener or knife sharpener.
"The pencil snapped inside the sharpener."
"He ran the blade across the knife sharpener a few times."
2
(informal, British) An alcoholic drink taken before a meal or at the start of the day.
"He stopped at the pub for a quick sharpener before lunch."
How to use sharpener
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishUsually a tool for putting a point or edge on something; informally in British English, a quick drink.
Common pairings
pencil sharpener
knife sharpener
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Word forms
- Plural
- sharpeners
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The pencil snapped inside the _____.
Etymology
From sharpen plus the agent suffix -er, "one that sharpens."
Rhymes for sharpener
wiener
opener
keener
widener
Wegener
Greener
listener
gardener
softener
sweetener
freshener
Kitchener
See all rhymes for sharpener →
Frequently asked questions
What does “sharpener” mean?
The word “sharpener” means a tool or device used to make something sharp, such as a pencil sharpener or knife sharpener. In plain terms, usually a tool for putting a point or edge on something; informally in British English, a quick drink.
How do you pronounce “sharpener”?
“Sharpener” is pronounced SHAH-puh-nuh (/ˈʃɑː(ɹ)pənə(ɹ)/ in IPA).
How do you use “sharpener” in a sentence?
Here is “sharpener” used in a sentence: “The pencil snapped inside the sharpener.”
What part of speech is “sharpener”?
“Sharpener” is a noun.
How many meanings does “sharpener” have?
“Sharpener” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a tool or device used to make something sharp, such as a pencil sharpener or knife sharpener.
