Synonyms for

Penetrate

Verb / ˈpenʌˌtreɪt / Another word for penetrate — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to pierce or pass into or through

Synonyms & similar words

bottom click getthrough fallintoplace diffuse comehome getacross riddle sinkin infiltrate imbue interpenetrate dawn pervade permeate perforate fathom enter pierce perforate bore drill impale stab puncture infiltrate invade permeate stab thrust

Synonyms by register

Formal

permeate infiltrate pervade pierce

Informal

get into break into go through poke through

Literary

pierce assail breach

Antonyms

withdraw halt stop block repel retreat yield

Common collocations

  • penetrate the market
  • penetrate the defense
  • penetrate the surface
  • penetrate the fog
  • penetrate deep
  • penetrate the enemy lines
  • penetrate the secrets

Word family

noun penetration
verb penetrate
adjective penetrative

Usage note

Can refer to physical entry or a deeper understanding. Be mindful of context to avoid unintended sexual connotations.

Example sentences

  1. The bullet was able to penetrate the armor.
  2. The roots of the plant can penetrate deep into the soil.
  3. The needle can penetrate the skin.
  4. The hacker was able to penetrate the computer system.
  5. The light can penetrate the darkness.

Quotes

  • Truth does not penetrate a closed mind. - Anonymous
  • “The ideas of the Age of Reason and the Enlightenment have also been consistently opposed by those who benefited from the power of ignorance and superstition for centuries. The power structures that were built on the promulgation of ignorance and superstition continue to prevent reason from penetrating the religious, institutional, and economic establishments of society.” - M.F. Moonzajer
  • “Nothing is so difficult as not deceiving oneself.” - Ludwig Wittgenstein

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