Pique

/piːk/

Meaning & Definition

noun

a feeling of irritation or resentment resulting from a slight, especially to one's pride.

He left the meeting in a fit of pique after his ideas were dismissed.

verb

to stimulate interest or curiosity.

The trailer for the movie did not pique my interest.

to feel irritation or resentment.

She was piqued by his rude comments.

French 'piquer', meaning 'to prick or sting'.

pique one's interest

to attract interest or curiosity.

in a fit of pique

in a state of irritation or annoyance.

piqueable

capable of being stimulated or provoked.

piquancy

the quality of being pleasantly stimulating or exciting.

To get someone's attention in a playful manner.

He always knows how to pique my curiosity with his stories.

To annoy or upset someone.

Don’t pique her; she’s already in a bad mood.