The adjective keen is usually used to describe having a sharp, fine cutting edge or point. It is also popularly used to mean having or characterized by acuity and intellectual quickness. In this sense of the term, a synonym would be the word sharp. It could also be used to mean acutely sensitive. It could mean sharp; vivid; strong. The adjective may also mean intense or piercing; or even pungent or acrid. The term keen has also been employed to denote ardent; enthusiastic; or eagerly desirous.
As a slang term it may mean great; splendid; fine. As a noun the term keep also applied to a loud, wailing lament or cry for the dead. In this sense as an intransitive verb it would mean wailing in lamentation, particularly for the dead.
The term comes from the Middle English word kene; from the Old English word cene, meaning brave. The adverb form of the word is keenly; while the noun form of the same is keenness.
As a slang term it may mean great; splendid; fine. As a noun the term keep also applied to a loud, wailing lament or cry for the dead. In this sense as an intransitive verb it would mean wailing in lamentation, particularly for the dead.
The term comes from the Middle English word kene; from the Old English word cene, meaning brave. The adverb form of the word is keenly; while the noun form of the same is keenness.
