Synonyms for

Piercing

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

Definition

having a sharp or penetrating quality

Synonyms & similar words

penetrative knifelike penetrating incisive acute stabbing discriminating sharp cutting lancinating lancinate pierce keen thrust sharp penetrating cutting keen acrid acidic bitter caustic incisive poignant probing pungent searing sour acidulous acerbic trenchant biting stinging intense

Synonyms by register

Formal

penetrating acute sharp incisive

Informal

sharp intense strong

Literary

keen unerring unerring

Antonyms

dull blunt gentle mild soft vague unsharp

Common collocations

  • piercing gaze
  • piercing eyes
  • piercing sound
  • piercing cold
  • piercing shriek
  • piercing stare
  • piercing pain

Word family

noun piercing
verb pierce
adjective piercing
adverb piercingly

Usage note

As an adjective, 'piercing' often describes sounds or sights that are sharp and intense. It can also refer to something that penetrates deeply, either physically or emotionally.

Example sentences

  1. The piercing sound of the fire alarm woke me up.
  2. The piercing cold wind made me shiver.
  3. The piercing pain in my ear made it hard to concentrate.
  4. I couldn't stand the piercing noise from the construction site.
  5. The piercing eyes of the hawk looked down at its prey.

Quotes

  • Elegance is not standing out, but being remembered. It is the essence of simplicity. It is the piercing impact of a diamond, not the gaudy flash of a rhinestone.
  • A piercing scream filled the air. A moment later, it was gone. The only sound remaining was the wind.
  • Your eyes are the source of truth. Your mouth can tell lies, but your eyes, they always reveal the truth. The piercing truth.

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