trenchant

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. adjective having keenness and forcefulness and penetration in thought, expression, or intellect
  2. adjective characterized by or full of force and vigor
  3. adjective clearly or sharply defined to the mind

Etymology

Borrowed into Middle English from Old French trenchant, the present participle of trenchier (“to cut”).

In classic literature

Synonyms

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