Pricked

The past tense and past participle of the verb 'prick,' meaning to pierce or puncture something, typically with a sharp object. It can also mean to cause a sharp, stinging sensation, either physically or emotionally. Figuratively, 'pricked' can describe a feeling of sudden awareness, stimulation, or a feeling of guilt or regret. It encompasses actions that are immediate, specific, and create a definite point of interaction. The word conveys an action, a sensation or the result of the action which leads to a change or response.

Pricked meaning with examples

• As he reached for the rose, a thorn pricked his finger, drawing a tiny bead of blood. He cursed softly, annoyed at the unexpected pain. He learned a lesson about the potential dangers of beauty; not all things were without risk. A small act with a consequence he should now remember.
• The doctor pricked the patient's finger to test their blood sugar levels. The patient flinched slightly, but the procedure was quick and painless. It provided immediate data to assess health and the information would lead to better treatment choices. A minor action for a beneficial result.
• The harsh words of her critic pricked at her carefully constructed facade of confidence. She felt a wave of self-doubt wash over her. The criticism was a direct hit; it caused a crack in her belief. A direct emotional attack led to a shift in self awareness.
• The sudden realization of his mistake pricked at his conscience. He felt a deep sense of regret for his actions and wanted to set things right. The awareness of the wrong was sudden and stung like a physical wound, compelling him to take action in the face of a negative personal assessment.