Need another word for Piercing? Use these synonyms of Piercing from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
penetrating
sharp
cutting
acute
keen
intense
profound
incisive
perceptive
discerning
astute
clever
wise
insightful
trenchant
biting
caustic
searing
scorching
harsh
severe
extreme
rigorous
stringent
piercingly
sharply
keenly
intensely
profoundly
Meaning of Piercing
The primary meaning of "piercing" according to Oxford Languages is having a sharp and intense quality, either physically, such as a piercing sound, or emotionally, such as a piercing gaze.
Definitions
- Having a sharp and intense quality, such as a piercing cry or a piercing pain
- * Able to seem to see or understand something very clearly, as if seeing into the heart of the matter
- * A piece of jewelry, especially for the ears or nose, that is inserted through a hole made in the body
Etymology of Piercing
The word "piercing" originates from the Old English word "piercan" or "percian," which is derived from the Latin word "percutere," meaning to strike or thrust through
Historically, the term has been used to describe sharp or intense sensations, as well as actions of penetrating or perforating something
Example Uses
- The piercing sound of the alarm clock woke her up
- * Her piercing green eyes seemed to see right through him
- * The piercing cold of the winter wind made it hard to breathe