Definify.com

Webster 1913 Edition

Adj.

[F., p. pr. of

poindre

to sting, fr. L.

pungere

to prick, sting. See

Pricking; piercing; sharp; pungent.

“His poignant spear.”

Spenser.

“Poynaunt sauce.”

Chaucer.

Fig.: Pointed; keen; satirical.

His wit . . . became more lively and

poignant

Sir W. Scott.

Adj.

poin'ant. [L. pungere, pungo, to prick.]

Sharp; stimulating the organs of taste; as poignant sauce.

Pointed; keen; bitter; irritating; satirical; as poignant wit.

Severe; piercing; very painful or acute; as poignant pain or grief.