knife edge

noun

1. the cutting edge of a knife.
2. anything very sharp.
3. a wedge on the fine edge of which a scale beam, pendulum, or the like, balances or oscillates.

knife edge

noun

1. the sharp cutting edge of a knife
2. any sharp edge
3. a sharp-edged wedge of hard material on which the beam of a balance pivots or about which a pendulum is suspended
4. a critical point in the development of a situation, process of making a decision, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of knife edge¹

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

The case also underscores how our personal rights are perched on a judicial knife edge in today’s America.

From Los Angeles Times

Polls suggest the race for the White House rests on a knife edge.

From BBC

I think naturally the car’s going to go towards him as in a bit less on a knife edge and more usable,” Albon continued.

From Seattle Times

It was knife edge decision, with Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey using his casting vote to pause the relentless series of rate rises we have seen in just under two years.

From BBC

The decision had been on a knife edge as policymakers and investors had to balance still-sticky inflation with a deteriorating euro area economic activity.

From Reuters

Related Words

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