pungent

Definition from Wiktionary, a free dictionary

Contents 1 English 1.1 Etymology 1.2 Pronunciation 1.3 Adjective 1.3.1 Derived terms 1.3.1.1 Translations

[edit] English

[edit] Etymology

From Latin pungens (stem pungent-), present participle of pungo (“‘to sting’”).

[edit] Pronunciation

•  Audio (US)^{help, file}

[edit] Adjective

pungent (comparative more pungent, superlative most pungent)

1. Having a sharp and stiff point.

   The critic gave a pungent review.

2. Having a strong odor that stings the nose, said especially of acidic or spicy substances.

   The lasagne included plenty of pungent garlic.

   • 1991, Paul Chadwick, Concrete: American Christmas, Dark Horse Books

     I can almost smell the fir scent… resinous, pungent.

[edit] Derived terms

• pungence
• pungently

[edit] Translations