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Pinched: meaning, definitions and examples

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pinched

 

[ pɪnʧt ]

Verb / Adjective
Context #1 | Verb

physical action

To pinch something means to quickly press or squeeze it tightly, usually between your fingers. This action can be used to take or remove a small amount of something, or as a playful gesture, such as pinching someone's cheek. It can also refer to engaging in a tight grip or to cause pain by applying pressure.

Synonyms

clamp, grab, nip, squeeze

Examples of usage

  • She pinched her nose to block the smell.
  • He pinched a portion of dough from the larger mass.
  • The child pinched his sister's arm playfully.
  • I pinched myself to see if I was dreaming.
Context #2 | Adjective

emotional state

The term 'pinched' can describe a facial expression or appearance that suggests stress, worry, or hardship. When someone looks pinched, their face may appear tense or strained, often showing signs of anxiety or discomfort. This appearance can also occur due to lack of nutrition or health issues.

Synonyms

gaunt, haggard, strained, tense

Examples of usage

  • She had a pinched look after the long meeting.
  • His pinched features highlighted the stress he had been under.
  • The illness left him with a pinched expression.
  • A pinched face can often indicate emotional distress.

Translations

Translations of the word "pinched" in other languages:

🇵🇹 apertado

🇮🇳 चुटकी

🇩🇪 gekniffen

🇮🇩 dicubit

🇺🇦 сдавлений

🇵🇱 uszczypnięty

🇯🇵 つままれた

🇫🇷 pincé

🇪🇸 pellizcado

🇹🇷 cıbıldak

🇰🇷 꼬집힌

🇸🇦 مضغوط

🇨🇿 zkřížený

🇸🇰 stlačený

🇨🇳 夹住的

🇸🇮 stisnjen

🇮🇸 klemmdur

🇰🇿 қысылған

🇬🇪 დაჭრილი

🇦🇿 sıxılmış

🇲🇽 pellizcado

Word origin

The word 'pinched' derives from the Middle English term 'pinchien', which is rooted in the Old French 'pinchier', meaning 'to nip' or 'to seize'. This word can also be traced back to the Latin 'pinctiare', a derivative of 'pinctus', meaning 'to prick'. Over time, 'pinched' has evolved to not only describe the physical act of squeezing but also encapsulates an emotional state characterized by tension or distress. The application of 'pinched' in both contexts reflects the versatility of the term, which has been in use since at least the 14th century. Its rich history illustrates the language's ability to adapt and convey complex human experiences.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,457, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.