Piquant (pronounced /ˈpiːkənt/) describes something with a pleasantly sharp and stimulating taste or smell. It suggests a delightful tartness or spiciness that excites the senses. Beyond flavors, 'piquant' can also describe something intellectually stimulating, provocative, or intriguing. It implies a sharpness of wit, a lively quality, or an interesting edge that captures attention and holds it. The term often evokes a sense of subtle complexity and stimulating interest, rather than an overpowering sensation.
Piquant meaning with examples
- The cheese was served with a selection of fruit and crackers, its piquant flavor a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the grapes and the blandness of the biscuits, an enjoyable contrast for the palate.
- Her stories were always piquant, filled with sharp observations and witty commentary on the absurdities of modern life, making her a favorite among literary critics, and avid book fans.
- The chef added a piquant sauce made with chili peppers and lime to the grilled fish, elevating the dish with a zesty punch that was both flavorful and aromatic.
- Despite the seriousness of the topic, the speaker delivered her lecture with a piquant sense of humor, which kept the audience engaged and attentive to the important information.
Piquant Synonyms
intriguing provocative pungent racy savory sharp snappy spicy stimulating tangy zestyPiquant Antonyms
bland dull flavorless insipid mild tame uninteresting vapidPiquant Crossword Answers
4 Letters
TART RACY
5 Letters
TANGY ZESTY ZINGY SALTY SPICY SHARP
6 Letters
SAVORY
7 Letters
SAVOURY ZESTFUL
8 Letters
ENGAGING