Prick: meaning, definitions and examples

Appropriate for minor, sharp pain or making a small hole, often with a needle or a thorn.

• She felt a prick when the nurse inserted the needle
• Be careful of the roses; they can prick your fingers

Best for describing the act of making a hole through something or referring to a small hole itself, often through pressure or force.

• The tire had a puncture from a sharp rock
• Be careful not to puncture the package; it could leak

Used for something that penetrates deeply, including intense emotions or sounds. Can also describe body modifications, like ear piercings.

• She felt a piercing gaze from across the room
• The baby's piercing cry woke everyone up
• He has a new piercing in his ear

Typically used for a forceful or violent thrust, often with a knife or other sharp object. It carries a negative connotation, especially in violent contexts.

• He was stabbed during the altercation
• She felt a stab of betrayal when she heard the news

Describes a quick, sharp sensation, often from a small pointed object.

• I got a prick from the cactus plant
• The doctor pricked my finger to get a blood sample

Used to describe a sudden, sharp pain, often short-lived and might be emotional or physical.

• I felt a twinge in my knee while running
• There was a twinge of jealousy when I saw them together

Associated with a sharp, burning pain often caused by insects, plants, or some specific sensations and emotions.

• The bee sting hurt a lot
• His harsh words left a sting in my heart

Typically describes a gripping action that causes temporary pain, usually between two fingers or an object and the skin.

• He gave me a pinch to wake me up
• The tight shoes pinched my toes

This term is often used to describe a small, sharp puncture, usually by something like a needle or thorn. It can have a negative connotation when used to describe a person as unpleasant or irritating.

• I felt a small prick on my finger when I touched the cactus
• He's such a prick, always making rude comments

Use this term when describing the act of going through something with a sharp object, making a hole. It can be used metaphorically to describe something emotionally impactful.

• She had her ears pierced last week
• His words pierced my heart

This word is commonly used in informal situations to describe quickly pushing something sharp, like a needle or finger. It can also refer to a quick punch in sports like boxing.

• She gave him a jab in the ribs with her elbow
• He received a jab in the arm during his vaccination

This term is often used in everyday language to describe touching someone or something lightly with your finger or a pointed object, generally not causing a puncture. It can also have a lighthearted or playful connotation.

• He playfully poked his friend in the side
• Stop poking the dough, it's not ready yet