Pronunciation: [ʃˈɑːpən] (IPA) 
The word "sharpen" is spelled with a "sh" sound followed by an "ar" sound, then a "p" and an "en." In IPA phonetic transcription, this would look like /ˈʃɑːpən/. The "sh" sound is represented by the symbol "ʃ" and the "ar" sound is represented by "ɑː." The "p" sound is represented by "p" and the "en" sound is represented by "ən." Overall, this word has four syllables and is pronounced as SHAA-r-pen.
Sharpen is a transitive verb that refers to the act of making something more acute, pointed, or finely honed. This process can be applied to various objects, skills, or mental abilities to enhance their effectiveness or precision.
When used in the context of physical objects, sharpen commonly refers to the act of improving the sharpness or cutting ability of tools such as knives, blades, or pencils. This is often achieved by using a sharpening tool or process, such as grinding, honing, or filing, to remove material and create a new, vibrant cutting edge.
In a metaphorical sense, sharpen is used to describe the enhancement or refinement of skills, abilities, or mental faculties. For example, one might sharpen their analytical thinking, problem-solving, or decision-making skills through deliberate practice, study, or experience. Sharpening can also apply to improving language proficiency, artistic talents, or any other capacity for performance or understanding.
Furthermore, sharpen can be used in reference to intensifying or increasing the clarity or focus of something, such as sharpening one's senses or perception to better perceive or comprehend certain stimuli or situations. This can imply a heightened awareness, attention to detail, or the ability to recognize subtleties and nuances.
In summary, sharpen is a versatile verb that encompasses the processes of making physical objects sharper, refining skills or abilities, and intensifying perception or focus. It implies an improvement in effectiveness, precision, and acuity, whether in a tangible or intangible context.
To make sharp or keen; to render quick or eager; in music, to raise a note a semitone; to make sharp or acid; to become sharp.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "sharpen" comes from the Old English word "scerpan", which is derived from the Proto-Germanic root "skarpaz". This root is also related to the Old Norse word "skorfa" and Old High German word "scarpfen", both meaning "to sharpen". The original meaning of "sharpen" referred to making something sharp or pointed, although it has come to encompass a broader sense of making something more effective or intense.
