Illustration of cusp
- 1 cusp d
a
: a point of transition (as from one historical period to the next) : turning point
b
: either horn of a crescent moon
c
: a fixed point on a mathematical curve at which a point tracing the curve would exactly reverse its direction of motion
d
: an ornamental pointed projection formed by or arising from the intersection of two arcs or foils (see foil entry 2 sense 4)
e(1)
: a point on the grinding surface of a tooth
(2)
: a fold or flap of a cardiac valve
Examples of cusp in a Sentence
the cusp of a tooth
medical researchers who are on the cusp of a major breakthrough
Recent Examples on the Web
For many schools, that means expanding technical education classes, building partnerships with local businesses, and getting creative with transporting teens — some just on the cusp of learning to drive — to part-time work.
—
Carley Lanich, IndyStar, 10 Feb. 2026
The Patriots finished the season 14-3, Maye passed for more than 4,000 yards, 31 touchdowns and – while his playoff performances haven’t exactly been outstanding – Maye has brought his team to the cusp of yet another Patriot Super Bowl title.
—Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 4 Feb. 2026
Today, Glenn stands on the cusp of becoming a legend.
—Marcus Thompson Ii, New York Times, 4 Feb. 2026
Like Lincoln in the Bardo, Saunders’s other novel, Vigil is set on the spooky cusp between life and death.
—Julius Taranto, The Atlantic, 27 Jan. 2026
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Carley Lanich, IndyStar, 10 Feb. 2026
The Patriots finished the season 14-3, Maye passed for more than 4,000 yards, 31 touchdowns and – while his playoff performances haven’t exactly been outstanding – Maye has brought his team to the cusp of yet another Patriot Super Bowl title.
—Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 4 Feb. 2026
Today, Glenn stands on the cusp of becoming a legend.
—Marcus Thompson Ii, New York Times, 4 Feb. 2026
Like Lincoln in the Bardo, Saunders’s other novel, Vigil is set on the spooky cusp between life and death.
—Julius Taranto, The Atlantic, 27 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for cusp
Cite this Entry
“Cusp.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cusp. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
cusp
noun
: a point or pointed end or part: as
a
: either of the pointed ends of a crescent moon
b
: a point on the grinding surface of a tooth
c
: a fold or flap of a heart valve
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