trenchant Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective satellite having keenness and forcefulness and penetration in thought, expression, or intellect
    searching.
    • searching insights
    • trenchant criticism
  2. adjective satellite characterized by or full of force and vigor
    hard-hitting.
    • a hard-hitting expose
    • a trenchant argument
  3. adjective satellite clearly or sharply defined to the mind
    distinct; clear-cut.
    • clear-cut evidence of tampering
    • Claudius was the first to invade Britain with distinct...intentions of conquest
    • trenchant distinctions between right and wrong

WordNet

Trench"ant adjective
Etymology
OF. trenchant, F. tranchant, p. pr. See Trench, v. t.
Definitions
  1. Fitted to trench or cut; gutting; sharp. " Trenchant was the blade." Chaucer.
  2. Fig.: Keen; biting; severe; as, trenchant wit.

Webster 1913