Synonyms for

Sting

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

Definition

to prick or wound with a sharp-pointed structure or organ, as a bee or nettle

Synonyms & similar words

insectbite stick bunco flimflam con confidencetrick bunkogame hustle bite burn buncogame bunko prick congame pang twinge confidencegame stinging gyp prick pierce jab poke stick thorn nettle bite burn hurt smart itch tickle irritate annoy vex bother aggravate harass torment

Synonyms by register

Formal

prick pierce irritate aggravate

Informal

poke jab annoy bug

Literary

smart burn prickle

Antonyms

soothe heal comfort calm ease relieve

Common collocations

  • bee sting
  • wasp sting
  • painful sting
  • sharp sting
  • sting of regret
  • sting of betrayal
  • sting of criticism
  • sting of defeat

Word family

noun sting
verb sting
adjective stinging

Usage note

As a verb, 'sting' often implies a sharp, sudden pain, typically from an insect bite or a wound. It can also be used figuratively to describe emotional pain or annoyance.

Example sentences

  1. The bee will sting you if you get too close.
  2. The cactus has needles that can sting if you touch them.
  3. The jellyfish can sting you if you swim too close to it.
  4. The mosquito's bite can sting and itch.
  5. The ant can sting with its sharp pincers.

Quotes

  • A bee is never as busy as it seems; it's just that it can't buzz any slower.
  • A bee is never afraid of me, nor I of it.
  • A bee stings when it is cornered.

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