Stinging

/ˈstɪŋ.ɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To cause a sharp pain or discomfort, typically through contact with a substance or an animal.

The bee stung him on the arm, leaving a red mark.

To hurt someone's feelings through harsh words or criticism.

His words stung me more than I care to admit.

adjective

Causing a sharp or sudden pain, often due to a prick or bite.

The stinging sensation from the jellyfish sting made him cry out in pain.

Expressing severe criticism or scorn.

Her stinging remarks about his performance left him feeling embarrassed.

Having a sharp or intense quality.

The stinging wind made it difficult to walk outside.

From the Old English 'stinġan', meaning 'to pierce or prick'.

stinging criticism

Harsh or severe criticism that causes emotional pain.

stinging sensation

A feeling that is sharp and painful, often caused by injury or irritation.

stinging remark

A comment that is sharply critical or hurtful.

sting

To pierce or wound with a sharp or pointed weapon.

stingy

Unwilling to give or spend; miserly.

To be in a situation that feels uncomfortable or painful.

After that break-up, he really felt stinging.

A sharp criticism that caught someone off guard.

Her stinging comeback left everyone silent.