Meaning & Definition of Penetrate in English

1. Pass into or through, often by overcoming resistance

• "The bullet penetrated her chest"

2. Come to understand

3. Become clear or enter one's consciousness or emotions

• "It dawned on him that she had betrayed him"

• "She was penetrated with sorrow"

4. Enter a group or organization in order to spy on the members

• "The student organization was infiltrated by a traitor"

5. Make one's way deeper into or through

• "The hikers did not manage to penetrate the dense forest"

6. Insert the penis into the vagina or anus of

• "Did the molester penetrate the child?"

7. Spread or diffuse through

• "An atmosphere of distrust has permeated this administration"

• "Music penetrated the entire building"

• "His campaign was riddled with accusations and personal attacks"