Sting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
sting
[stษชล ]
Definitions
music
A short, sharp sound made by a stringed instrument or a bell.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sting |
Used to describe a sharp, sudden pain or the feeling of being hurt emotionally. It can also be used metaphorically.
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| twang |
Used to describe a sharp, vibrating sound typical of plucked string instruments like guitars or banjos. Can also describe a nasal quality in someone's voice.
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| clang |
Used to describe a loud, resonant metallic sound, often from striking metal against metal. Commonly associated with industrial or construction settings.
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| jingle |
Used to describe a light, rhythmic ringing sound, often produced by small metal objects like bells or coins. This word is often associated with festive or cheerful scenarios.
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Examples of usage
- The sting of the guitar echoed through the room.
- The sting of the bell signaled the end of the performance.
insect
The act of an insect or animal using its sting to inject venom into a victim.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sting |
For small wounds or injuries which involve a sudden sharp pain. Double entry here.
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| bite |
Action when teeth sink into skin or flesh, common with animals or humans. Can also relate to food.
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| prick |
A small, sharp puncture, often from a needle or thorn. Can also indicate a sudden pain or annoyance.
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| jab |
A quick, sharp poke or punch, often associated with injections or punches in boxing.
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Examples of usage
- The bee's sting left a painful mark on my arm.
- Watch out for the scorpion's sting!
emotion
To cause sharp mental or emotional pain.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sting |
Use 'sting' when referring to a sharp, quick, and usually brief sensation of pain, often caused by insects or sharp objects.
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| hurt |
Use 'hurt' when talking about physical or emotional pain. It's a general term and can describe both mild and severe discomfort.
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| pain |
Use 'pain' to describe an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage. It can be both physical and emotional.
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| wound |
Use 'wound' when speaking about a physical injury that usually involves the breaking of the skin, often from violence or an accident. It may also be used metaphorically to describe emotional hurt.
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Examples of usage
- The harsh criticism stung him deeply.
- Her betrayal stung more than she realized.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Nature
- Certain species, like jellyfish and certain fish, can cause painful stings using specialized cells called nematocysts.
- Some plants, like stinging nettles, have tiny hairs that release a sting when touched.
Health
- When a person gets stung by a bee, the venom can cause a localized reaction, which might be painful but often goes away in a few hours.
- Allergic reactions to stings can be serious for some individuals and require immediate medical attention.
Pop Culture
- The word 'sting' can also refer to emotional hurt, often expressed in songs and literature, highlighting betrayal or pain.
- Sting, the musician and former lead singer of The Police, chose his stage name reflecting the experience of being stung by a bee.
Psychology
- People often describe emotional stings, like heartbreak or rejection, indicating how feelings can be as intense as physical pain.
- The perception of sting can trigger a fight-or-flight response, with the body preparing to protect itself from perceived threats.
Origin of 'sting'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'sting' comes from the Old English 'stingan', meaning to pierce or prick.
- Historically, it has been used not just for insects but also in reference to sharp pains or feelings.
The word 'sting' originated from Old English 'stingan', meaning to pierce or prick. Over time, it evolved to encompass a variety of meanings related to sharp, pointed actions or sensations. In modern usage, 'sting' is commonly associated with the pain caused by insects like bees or scorpions, as well as metaphorical emotional pain.