piercing

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.

“Piercing” is pronounced PEER-sihng (/ˈpɪɹsɪŋ/ in IPA).

Here is “piercing” used in a sentence: “She gave him a piercing stare across the room.”

Depending on how it is used, “piercing” can be an adjective and a noun.

“Piercing” is an uncommon word in modern English.

“Piercing” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: sharp and penetrating, whether describing a look, sound, or cold.

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.

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.

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.