Pierce Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pierce

[pɪəs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

to make a hole

To pierce means to make a hole in something using a sharp object, such as a needle or a knife. The action of piercing is often done quickly and with precision.

Synonyms

penetrate, prick, puncture.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pierce

Used when something sharp goes through or breaks the surface of an object. Often used in dramatic contexts.

  • The needle pierced her skin
  • The scream pierced the still night
penetrate

Used to describe something that passes into or through something, often involving effort or resistance. It's also used in more abstract senses.

  • The bullet penetrated his armor
  • Her words penetrated his heart
prick

Used when something sharp quickly and lightly breaks the surface, often causing slight pain.

  • She felt a prick on her finger from the rose thorn
  • The mosquito bite pricked his skin
puncture

Used when something sharp makes a small hole in a surface or object, usually causing it to collapse or deflate. Often technical or medical context.

  • He got a puncture in his tire
  • The doctor had to puncture the abscess

Examples of usage

  • She pierced the balloon with a pin.
  • He pierced his ear to wear an earring.
Context #2 | Noun

a hole or an opening

As a noun, pierce refers to a hole or an opening made by piercing. It can also be used to describe an act of piercing, such as body piercing for jewelry.

Synonyms

hole, opening, perforation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pierce

Use this word when talking about making a sharp, focused hole or break through a surface, often with an emotional or physical intensity.

  • He used a needle to pierce the fabric
  • Her scream pierced the silence of the night
hole

This is a general term for any hollow space or gap in a surface.

  • There was a hole in the wall
  • The kids were digging a hole in the sand
opening

Use this in broader contexts to denote an access point, such as a gap, break, or doorway.

  • Please leave the opening clear for emergency exits
  • She found an opening in the hedge and walked through
perforation

This word is often used when talking about a series of small holes, especially in paper or material that is meant to be easily torn along these holes.

  • The stamps have perforation lines to make them easy to tear
  • The notebook has perforation along the edge for clean removal of pages

Examples of usage

  • The pierce in the fabric was too small to repair.
  • She got a new pierce on her belly button.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In poetry, 'pierce' is often used metaphorically to describe feelings or emotions entering deep into the heart.
  • Classic literature frequently employs the term to express violence or deep impact, such as in battles or conflicts.
  • Famous lines from plays and novels sometimes use 'pierce' in love-related contexts, implying vulnerability or openness.

Science

  • In anatomy, 'pierce' can refer to needles or surgical instruments that penetrate the skin for medical purposes, like vaccinations.
  • Physics uses the term to describe how objects can penetrate materials, influencing studies on pressure and tension.
  • The concept of pressure is vital in various fields of science, illustrating how sharp objects can easily pierce through softer materials.

Pop Culture

  • In modern tattoo culture, 'pierce' not only refers to body piercings but also symbolizes individuality and expression.
  • Piercing is often featured in movies and TV shows as a rite of passage or expression of rebellion, showcasing the character's development.
  • Music lyrics frequently reference piercing emotions, often to depict heartbreak or longing.

Origin of 'pierce'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'pierce' comes from the Old French word 'percer,' meaning 'to penetrate or bore through.'
  • It has roots in the Latin word 'perciare,' which also means to pierce or stab.
  • Historically, the term has been used in various contexts, from hunting weapons to jewelry.

The word 'pierce' originated from the Old French word 'percer' which meant 'to pierce' or 'to make a hole'. It has been used in English since the 13th century and has retained its meaning of creating a hole or opening by penetrating with a sharp object.


See also: pierceable, piercing.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,671, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.