adj
piquant
Piquant (adj) means causing hurt feelings; scathing, severe.
adj
1
Causing hurt feelings; scathing, severe.
2
Stimulating to the senses; engaging; charming.
3
Favorably stimulating to the palate; pleasantly spicy; tangy.
4
Producing a burning sensation due to the presence of chilies or similar spices; spicy, hot.
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Etymology
Borrowed from Middle French piquant (“pricking, stimulating, irritating”), present participle of piquer, possibly from Old French pikier (“to prick, sting, nettle”). Doublet of picong. Related to pike.
Rhymes for piquant
See all rhymes for piquant →Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of piquant?
"piquant" (adj) means causing hurt feelings; scathing, severe.
What are the different meanings of piquant?
"piquant" has 3 main meanings: 1. Causing hurt feelings; scathing, severe; 2. Stimulating to the senses; engaging; charming; 3. Favorably stimulating to the palate; pleasantly spicy; tangy.