pierce

 
Pronunciation: /pɪəs/

verb

[with object]
  • 1(of a sharp pointed object) go into or through (something): a splinter had pierced the skin
  • make (a hole) with a sharp instrument: I had to pierce another hole in my belt
  • make a hole in (the ears or other part of the body) so as to wear jewellery in them: (as adjective pierced) a punk with a pierced nose
  • make an opening in or bore a tunnel through: the dividing wall is pierced by arches
  • 2force a way through; penetrate: they were seeking to pierce the anti-ballistic-missile defences a shrill voice pierced the air

Phrases

pierce someone's heart

affect someone keenly or deeply: pure love had pierced her heart I felt pierced to the heart, dejected and lonely

Derivatives

piercer

noun

Origin:

Middle English: from Old French percer, based on Latin pertus- 'bored through', from the verb pertundere, from per 'through' + tundere 'thrust'