piercing
0 antonyms and opposites of piercing, grouped by meaning.
Adj — Sharp and penetrating, whether describing a look, sound, or cold.
How to use piercing
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From "pierce" plus the "-ing" ending.
Full origin of piercing →Frequently asked questions
What does “piercing” mean?
The word “piercing” means sharp and penetrating, whether describing a look, sound, or cold. In plain terms, sharply penetrating (of sound, cold, or a look), or a body piercing.
How do you pronounce “piercing”?
“Piercing” is pronounced PEER-sihng (/ˈpɪɹsɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “piercing” in a sentence?
Here is “piercing” used in a sentence: “She gave him a piercing stare across the room.”
What part of speech is “piercing”?
Depending on how it is used, “piercing” can be an adjective and a noun.
Is “piercing” a common word?
“Piercing” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “piercing” have?
“Piercing” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: sharp and penetrating, whether describing a look, sound, or cold.
What is the difference between "piercing" as an adjective and as a noun?
As an adjective, "piercing" describes something sharp and penetrating, such as a piercing look, sound, or cold. As a noun, a "piercing" refers to a hole made in the body to hold jewellery, or the jewellery itself.
What is the difference between a "piercing" and a "tattoo"?
A piercing is a hole made in the body, usually to hold jewellery, while a tattoo is permanent ink applied under the skin to create a design. Both are forms of body modification, but a piercing involves an opening in the body rather than pigment.
Can "piercing" describe a sound as well as a look?
Yes, "piercing" is commonly used to describe sounds, such as a piercing scream or whistle, as well as visual and physical sensations, such as a piercing stare or piercing cold. In each case, it conveys something sharp and intense enough to feel almost painful.