■ adjective
1》 having an edge or point able to cut or pierce something.
↘tapering to a point or edge.
↘(of sand or gravel) composed of angular grains.
2》 producing a sudden, piercing sensation or effect.
3》 (of a food, taste, or smell) acidic and intense.
4》 (of a sound) sudden and penetrating.
5》 (of words or a speaker) critical or hurtful.
↘(of an emotion or experience) painful.
6》 clearly defined.
7》 informal smart and stylish.
8》 sudden and marked.
↘making a sudden change of direction: a ~ bend.
9》 showing speed of perception, comprehension, or response.
↘quick to take advantage, especially in a dishonest way.
10》 (of musical sound) above true or normal pitch.
↘[ postposition ] (of a note) a semitone higher than a specified note.
↘[ postposition ] (of a key) having a ~ or ~s in the signature.
■ adverb
1》 punctually: at 7.30 ~.
2》 suddenly or abruptly.
3》 above the true or normal pitch of musical sound.
■ noun
1》 a musical note raised a semitone above natural pitch.
↘the sign (♯) indicating this.
2》 (usu. ~s ) an object with a ~ point, especially a hypodermic needle.
↘a long, ~ly pointed needle used for general sewing.
■ verb
1》 [usu. as adjective ~ed ] US Music raise the pitch of (a note).
2》 archaic cheat or swindle (someone), especially at cards.
Derivatives
~ly adverb
~ness noun
Origin
OE sc(e)arp , of Gmc origin.