English Lexicon

Pique

/piːk/
verbnounCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #8500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As verb
  1. 1

    To arouse or stimulate interest, curiosity, or a specific emotion.

    "Her strange behavior did nothing to pique his curiosity."
As noun
  1. 1

    A feeling of irritation or resentment resulting from a slight, especially to one's pride.

    "He left the party in a fit of pique after his proposal was ignored."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Borrowed into English in the late 15th century from the French verb piquer, meaning 'to prick, sting, or goad'. The term ultimately derives from Old French and Frankish roots associated with sharp points and piercing actions, evolving metaphorically to mean arousing curiosity or provoking resentment.

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