DictionaryacutePointed shape
adjective

acute

Forming a sharp point or an angle smaller than a right angle.

The student draws an acute angle smaller than a right angle.

Etymology

Latin acutus meant sharp or pointed. This physical image remains visible in an acute point or angle, whose narrow opening makes it sharper than a right angle.

More examples

  • The leaf tapers to an acute tip.
  • Each corner of this triangle forms an acute angle.
  • The diagram contrasts acute and obtuse angles.

Similar words

pointed
Describes shape without specifying an angle below ninety degrees.
sharp
Broader; can describe an edge as well as a point.