prick
12 synonyms for prick, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A small puncture or the sharp sensation caused by one.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
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.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
A small puncture or the sharp sensation caused by one.
“She felt the prick of the needle as the nurse drew blood.”
How to use prick
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
prick your finger
a prick of conscience
The insult sense is vulgar and best avoided in polite or professional contexts.
Etymology
From Old English prica, "a sharp point or tiny mark," of Germanic origin.
Full origin of prick →Frequently asked questions
What does “prick” mean?
The word “prick” means a small puncture or the sharp sensation caused by one. In plain terms, a small puncture (noun/verb), or a rude insult for an unpleasant person.
How do you pronounce “prick”?
“Prick” is pronounced prihk (/pɹɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “prick” in a sentence?
Here is “prick” used in a sentence: “She felt the prick of the needle as the nurse drew blood.”
What part of speech is “prick”?
Depending on how it is used, “prick” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “prick” come from?
The word “prick” comes from Old English. From Old English prica, "a sharp point or tiny mark," of Germanic origin.
Is “prick” a common word?
“Prick” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “prick” have?
“Prick” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a small puncture or the sharp sensation caused by one.
