Meaning & Definition of word "Pique"

Pique

/piːk/

noun:

  • 1. a feeling of irritation or resentment resulting from a slight, especially to one's pride.
    • Example: He left the meeting in a fit of pique after his ideas were dismissed.

verb:

  • 1. to stimulate interest or curiosity.
    • Example: The trailer for the movie did not pique my interest.
  • 2. to feel irritation or resentment.
    • Example: She was piqued by his rude comments.

Etymology

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

Common Phrases and Expressions

pique one's interest:

to attract interest or curiosity.

in a fit of pique:

in a state of irritation or annoyance.

Related Words

piqueable:

capable of being stimulated or provoked.

piquancy:

the quality of being pleasantly stimulating or exciting.

Slang Meanings of pique

Meaning: To get someone's attention in a playful manner.

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

Meaning: To annoy or upset someone.

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