pierce
6 synonyms for pierce, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To make a hole through something, usually with something sharp.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use pierce
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
pierce the skin
pierce the silence
pierce your ears
Etymology
From Old French percier, likely from a Latin root meaning "to thrust or bore through".
Full origin of pierce →Frequently asked questions
What does “pierce” mean?
The word “pierce” means to make a hole through something, usually with something sharp. In plain terms, to puncture something, or to affect someone very deeply.
How do you pronounce “pierce”?
“Pierce” is pronounced peers (/pɪɹs/ in IPA).
How do you use “pierce” in a sentence?
Here is “pierce” used in a sentence: “The needle pierced her skin for the earring.”
What part of speech is “pierce”?
“Pierce” is a verb.
Where does the word “pierce” come from?
The word “pierce” comes from Latin. From Old French percier, likely from a Latin root meaning "to thrust or bore through".
Is “pierce” a common word?
“Pierce” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “pierce” have?
“Pierce” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to make a hole through something, usually with something sharp.
What is the difference between 'pierce' and 'puncture'?
'Pierce' means to make a hole through something with a sharp point, and it can pass all the way through. 'Puncture' usually means to make a small hole that lets air or liquid escape, as when a tyre is punctured.
What is the difference between 'pierce' and 'penetrate'?
Both mean to go into or through something, but 'pierce' stresses breaking the surface with a sharp point, often quickly. 'Penetrate' focuses more on entering or passing deep inside and does not always require a sharp object.
What preposition is used with 'pierce'?
'Pierce' is often followed by 'through,' as in 'the nail pierced through the board.' It can also take a direct object without a preposition, as in 'the arrow pierced his shield.'
Can 'pierce' be used figuratively?
Yes. Beyond making physical holes, 'pierce' can describe something that affects you deeply or cuts to the heart of a matter, as in 'a scream pierced the silence' or 'her words pierced him.'
