Pique

To Pique means to arouse curiosity or interest; to stimulate. It can also signify to offend or irritate someone. The word often describes a sudden sharp feeling or emotion, like curiosity or resentment. The degree of Pique varies, ranging from a mild curiosity to an intense feeling of annoyance or anger. Understanding the context of the word is crucial, as 'pique' can refer to either a positive or negative emotion. Derived from the French word 'piquer,' meaning to prick or sting, the word embodies the idea of a sudden, sharp impact on a person’s feelings or attention. It's a word that encapsulates a dynamic and often unexpected shift in someone's state of mind.

Pique meaning with examples

• The intricate puzzle piqued her interest, and she spent hours trying to solve it. Her curiosity was the driving force behind her intense focus, with the challenge completely captivating her attention and driving away all distractions.
• His unusual perspective on the subject piqued the interviewer's attention, leading to a deeper conversation about the unexpected links, that was far from a simple discussion.
• The gossiping colleague's remarks piqued her sense of injustice. This caused her to address the unfair nature of the situation directly with the right individuals to settle this.
• The abrupt rejection of her proposal piqued her competitive spirit, causing her to redouble her efforts to prove her capabilities and ultimately succeed in her future endeavours.