Definition of "acute" []

• Having a sharp point or tip. (adjective)
• Keenly perceptive or discerning: "a raw, chilling and psychologically acute novel of human passions reduced to their deadliest essence” ( Literary Guild Magazine). See Synonyms at sharp. (adjective)
• Reacting readily to stimuli or impressions; sensitive: His hearing was unusually acute. (adjective)
• Of great importance or consequence; crucial: an acute lack of research funds. (adjective)
• Extremely sharp or severe; intense: acute pain; acute relief. (adjective)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "Understand indications for surgical and orthopaedic consultation in acute and chronic rheumatic diseases"
• "Trained and licensed occupational therapists work in acute care and ICUs, inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient services, and in specialty diagnostic clinics and programs."
• "California has been in acute crisis mode for the better part of the last two decades as made stark in two new books, Remaking California and California Crackup."