The term "acute" refers to something that is sharp or intense. In medical contexts, it often describes conditions that come on suddenly and are severe in nature, such as acute pain or acute illness. These conditions typically require immediate attention and can be contrasted with chronic conditions, which develop gradually and persist over time. In geometry, "acute" describes angles that measure less than 90 degrees. An acute angle is sharp in appearance and is often found in various shapes and designs. Understanding acute angles is essential in fields like mathematics and engineering, where precise measurements are crucial.