verb
Common
pierce
peers
Pierce (verb) means to make a hole through something, usually with something sharp. Example: “Be careful not to pierce the tin with the knife while opening it.”
verb
1
To make a hole through something, usually with something sharp.
"Be careful not to pierce the tin with the knife while opening it."
"The needle pierced her skin for the earring."
"The arrow pierced the target dead centre."
2
To affect someone deeply or reach the heart of a matter.
"A sudden wave of guilt pierced him as he read her letter."
"The speaker's honest question pierced the vagueness and exposed the real problem."
"His words pierced her heart."
How to use pierce
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo puncture something, or to affect someone very deeply.
Common pairings
pierce the skin
pierce the silence
pierce your ears
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Word forms
- Plural
- pierces
- Third person singular
- pierces
- Past tense
- pierced
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Be careful not to _____ the tin with the knife while opening it.
Etymology
From Old French percier, likely from a Latin root meaning "to thrust or bore through".
Related words
Rhymes for pierce
See all rhymes for 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.'
