expression, noun-modifying (irregular)
Describes something with a sharp, cutting-edge, or provocative quality, often in fashion, design, music, or attitude. Functions as a prenominal phrase.
His edgy design became the talk of the town.
The sharp guitar riff gives the song a strong impression.
Standard kanji spelling using 効く for 'effective, sharp'.
Variant using 利く, also common; both convey a sharp, edgy quality.
From English 'edge' plus the Japanese verb 効く (to be effective), literally 'edge is effective'. The phrase likely emerged in fashion and music contexts to describe a sharp, edgy quality.