trenchant

adjective

ˈtren-chənt How to pronounce trenchant (audio)
Definition of trenchantnext
as in sharpened
having an edge thin enough to cut or pierce something even the most trenchant sword could not sever the bonds of loyalty between them

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of trenchant More so than its source material, the new series is a monster mystery mixed with a trenchant social thriller. — Patrick Brzeski, HollywoodReporter, 6 July 2026 Blending trenchant social commentary with genuine thrills, the film explores terror on both a surface and subconscious level as Chris tries to escape his dreadful fate — one that is arguably worse than death. — Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 5 June 2026 Last week, an article in Foreign Affairs drew a trenchant parallel with the Vietnam War. — Ned Temko, Christian Science Monitor, 27 May 2026 That the show predated the birth of the Marvel Cinematic Universe makes its send-up of superhero themes that much more trenchant in retrospect. — Eric Vilas-Boas, Vulture, 18 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for trenchant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for trenchant
sharp
Adjective
  • On its face, however, this inspirational message seems in sharp contrast to economic reality.
    — Masood Ahmed, Fortune, 17 Oct. 2026
  • Bajaria’s foresight was sharper, investing in local language productions and building up Netflix’s global presence (almost two dozen international offices were opened during Bajaria’s reign).
    — Matt Donnelly, Variety, 16 Oct. 2026
Definition of sharp

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trenchancy
trenchant
trench coat
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Cite this Entry

“Trenchant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/trenchant. Accessed 21 Oct. 2026.

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