Main Entry: pen·e·tra·tion

Pronunciation: \ˌpe-nə-ˈtrā-shən\

Function: noun

Date: 1605

1 a : the power to penetrate; especially : the ability to discern deeply and acutely b : the depth to which something penetrates c : the extent to which a commercial product or agency is familiar or sells in a market
2 : the act or process of penetrating: as a : the act of entering a country so that actual establishment of influence is accomplished b : an attack that penetrates the enemy's front or territory

synonyms see discernment