Piquant

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.