Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

whetting

Verb

/ˈwɛtɪŋ/

Definition

Whetting refers to the act of sharpening a blade or tool, but it can also mean arousing interest or appetite.

Examples

Whetting my appetite with a delicious aroma from the kitchen.
The tutor used interesting stories as a tool for whetting the students’ curiosity about science.
He whetted his knife before starting the camping trip.

Meaning

The term ‘whetting’ generally implies preparing something to be sharper or more effective, whether it’s physically sharpening a knife or stirring up enthusiasm.