pierce

word

/ˈpɪɹs/
peers
/pˈiəs/
pee-uhz

Definition

To go into or through something by making a hole with a sharp point. It can also mean to affect someone strongly, especially in a sudden or intense way, as with pain, sound, or a look.

Usage & Nuances

Common with objects like 'pierce the skin', 'pierce your ears', and 'pierce through the darkness'. It is stronger and more precise than 'cut' or 'poke'. In figurative use, it often appears with nouns like 'pain', 'silence', 'cry', or 'gaze'.

Example Sentences

Her voice pierced the silence in the room.

natural

Be careful not to pierce the bag with the knife.

basic

The needle can pierce the skin easily.

basic

She wants to pierce her ears.

basic

His eyes seemed to pierce right through me.

natural

A sharp pain pierced my chest for a second.

natural