Acute

(a-kūť.) [L. acutus, sharp.] A designation given to anything which terminates in a sharp point or edge; thus, we say, an acute angle, an acute-angled triangle, & c.: -it is the antithesis to OBTUSE, q. v. (Mus.) An epithet marking sharp or shrill sounds, in contradistinction to grave.- Acute Diseases. (Med.) Those diseases which are accompanied with violent symptoms, and require prompt attention;- as distinguished from chronic diseases, or those which usually last a longer time.. [s. 8]