Meaning & Definition of word "Piercing"
Piercing
/ˈpɪəsɪŋ/
noun:
- 1. An act of piercing or the state of being pierced.
- Example: The piercing of her ears was a rite of passage in her culture.
- 2. A piece of jewelry intended to be worn in a pierced body part.
- Example: She wore a beautiful diamond stud as her ear piercing.
adjective:
- 1. Having a sharp or penetrating quality, such as a loud sound or an intense gaze.
- Example: She gave him a piercing look that silenced the room.
- 2. Penetrating or penetrating in nature.
- Example: The piercing wind cut through his jacket, leaving him shivering.
- 3. Sharp or intense, often used to describe sounds or feelings.
- Example: The piercing cry of the siren could be heard for miles.
Etymology
●Middle English, from the verb piercen, which derives from Old French percer, meaning 'to pierce'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
piercing gaze:
A look that seems to perceive deeply or intensely.
piercing scream:
A loud, sharp cry that is often distressing or alarming.
piercing pain:
An intense and acute pain sensation.
Related Words
pierce:
To make a hole through something with a sharp object.
piercingly:
In a manner that is sharp or penetrating.
Slang Meanings of piercing
Meaning: A sharp insult or comment.
● Example Sentence: Her words were a piercing jab at his ego.
Meaning: Referring to body modifications like earrings.
● Example Sentence: She just got a new piercing in her nose.