The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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pique

verb

/piːk/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of pique

To arouse or stimulate a feeling of interest, curiosity, or irritation in someone.
"The unique design of the building will definitely pique architectural curiosity."

Detailed meaning of pique

The verb "pique" has multiple meanings, but one common usage is When we say something "piques" one's interest, we mean it has ignited or attracted their curiosity or attention. On the other hand, when something "piques" irritation, it suggests that it has provoked or annoyed someone to some degree. The term "pique" often conveys a sense of provocation or stimulation, whether it's by presenting an intriguing idea, a challenging question, or an irritating remark. In both cases, it signifies the act of inciting a reaction or emotion, making it an essential word to describe how certain situations or statements can engage individuals on different levels.

Example sentences containing pique

1. Can an interesting movie pique your curiosity?
2. If I share this mystery novel, will it pique your interest?
3. This documentary might pique your appetite for historical knowledge.
4. Did the vibrant cityscape pique your desire to travel?
5. The intriguing narrative was enough to pique anyone's attention.
6. I hope the promise of an exciting adventure will pique your enthusiasm.

History and etymology of pique

The verb 'pique' has an intriguing etymology that traces its origins to both French and Spanish. It is believed to have come from the French word 'piquer,' which means 'to prick' or 'to sting.' In the context of emotions, it suggests arousing or stimulating a feeling, much like a sharp prick can elicit a reaction. Additionally, the Spanish word 'picar' also means 'to prick' or 'to sting.' Over time, 'pique' transitioned into English with a nuanced range of meanings. It can refer to arousing interest or curiosity, as if one's curiosity has been pricked. It can also signify arousing irritation or a sense of wounded pride, as if one's emotions have been stung. Thus, the etymology of 'pique' underscores its historical connection to the idea of provoking or stimulating emotions, whether positively in terms of interest or negatively in terms of irritation.

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Further usage examples of pique

1. Will the complexity of the riddle pique your intellect?
2. The sudden movement in the bushes could pique anyone's curiosity.
3. The bold colors of the painting pique the senses.
4. Let's see if this cryptic message will pique your investigative spirit.
5. Could the mention of a secret treasure pique your adventurous side?
6. The unusual star pattern should pique astronomers' interest.
7. I wonder if this new theory will pique scientific interest worldwide.
8. The poignant scene was designed to pique the viewer's empathy.
9. Did the detective's cryptic clue pique your interest in the case?
10. The complexity of the plot may pique your desire for a challenge.
11. The striking photograph will undoubtedly pique interest in the art community.
12. The spiciness of the dish may pique your palate.
13. The intriguing mystery novel piqued her curiosity from the first page.
14. His dismissive attitude towards her work piqued her sense of injustice.
15. The exotic flavors of the cuisine piqued our taste buds.
16. The unexpected twist in the plot piqued the audience's interest.
17. His sarcastic remark piqued her anger and frustration.
18. The challenging puzzle game piqued his intellect and problem-solving skills.
19. The stunning artwork on display piqued the admiration of art lovers.
20. The controversial article on social issues piqued heated debates.
21. Her innovative ideas piqued the interest of potential investors.
22. The breathtaking view from the mountaintop piqued their sense of adventure.
23. The unexpected guest's arrival piqued everyone's surprise.
24. His constant interruptions during the meeting piqued the annoyance of his colleagues.