incisive

[ in-sahy-siv ]
/ ɪnˈsaɪ sɪv /

adjective

penetrating; cutting; biting; trenchant: an incisive tone of voice.
remarkably clear and direct; sharp; keen; acute: an incisive method of summarizing the issue.
adapted for cutting or piercing.
of or relating to the incisors: the incisive teeth.

Origin of incisive

From the Medieval Latin word incīsīvus, dating back to 1520–30. See incise, -ive

OTHER WORDS FROM incisive

Example sentences from the Web for incisive

British Dictionary definitions for incisive

incisive
/ (ɪnˈsaɪsɪv) /

adjective

keen, penetrating, or acute
biting or sarcastic; mordant an incisive remark
having a sharp cutting edge incisive teeth

Derived forms of incisive

incisively, adverb incisiveness, noun

Medical definitions for incisive

incisive
[ ĭn-sīsĭv ]

adj.

Having the power to cut.
Relating to the incisor teeth.