give an edge to

[vil]

Dear teachers,

Would you be kind enough to give me your considered opinion concerning the interpretation of the expressions in bold in the following sentences?

Good gentlemen, give him a further edge,
And drive his purpose on to these delights. (W. Shakespeare, “Hamlet”)

He had his grievances, but it was really the sudden cold lash of the wind that had now put a sharp edge on his temper. (J. B. Priestley, “The Good Companions”)

give an edge to = set an edge on = put an edge on = excite, stimulate

V