pierce

Definition of piercenext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb pierce differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of pierce are enter, penetrate, and probe. While all these words mean "to make way into something," pierce means an entering or cutting through with a sharp pointed instrument.

pierced the boil with a lancet

When might enter be a better fit than pierce?

While the synonyms enter and pierce are close in meaning, enter is the most general of these and may imply either going in or forcing a way in.

entered the city in triumph

When is penetrate a more appropriate choice than pierce?

While in some cases nearly identical to pierce, penetrate carries a strong implication of an impelling force or compelling power that achieves entrance.

the enemy penetrated the fortress

Where would probe be a reasonable alternative to pierce?

The synonyms probe and pierce are sometimes interchangeable, but probe implies penetration to investigate or explore something hidden from sight or knowledge.

probed the depths of the sea

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of pierce Because of the bullets that pierced his mother, he was deprived of blood and oxygen for critical minutes just prior to his birth. Charlotte Observer, 22 June 2026 There’s pierced and studded flip-flops, which are my personal favorite, colorful jellies, funky fish-flops (yes, really), and dressier styles in summer-ready raffia wedges and minimalist-friendly kitten heels. Kaitlin Clapinski, InStyle, 22 June 2026 If discovering tiny insect casings or sticky residue, this often indicates those insects with piercing and sucking mouthparts that slowly siphon sap from plants, depleting their ability to feed themselves through photosynthesis. Anthony Reardon, Kansas City Star, 20 June 2026 The close-up picture, which showcased Meeks' piercing blue eyes, endeared him to many despite his criminal past. Nicole Briese, PEOPLE, 18 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for pierce
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pierce
Verb
  • One notable upgrade is the Sheet Mask Boost Mode, specifically designed to help hydrating essences penetrate deeper into the skin.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 23 June 2026
  • Okay, ability to go in and penetrate a cybersecurity system.
    Dana Taylor, USA Today, 23 June 2026
Verb
  • Lo Celso scored on a free kick; Martinez drilled a penalty kick after Julian Alvarez was kicked in the face while attempting a header.
    Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 28 June 2026
  • The Mets nearly answered against Wheeler in the bottom of the first, as Soto — with a runner on first base — drilled a 397-foot drive to right-center.
    Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 27 June 2026
Verb
  • After Emii’s killing, Bland stabbed and attempted to shoot herself but was unable to because of the extent of her injuries, Handfield said, after the voices in her head were giving her those commands.
    Grethel Aguila, Miami Herald, 24 June 2026
  • If you are stabbed in the neck outside a LA restaurant, pray Amy Adams is dining at the same establishment.
    Bethy Squires, Vulture, 23 June 2026
Verb
  • Israeli troops advanced to its outskirts and didn’t enter, but their strikes pummeled what had been an economic powerhouse of Shiite business affluence.
    Nabih Bulos, Los Angeles Times, 22 June 2026
  • Check with lifeguards before entering the ocean for possible hazards you may be swept into.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 22 June 2026
Verb
  • Algeria turned up the pressure in the second half and had multiple shots on goal that Jordan goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila punched away, but a corner kick in the 69th minute proved to be the Jordanian keeper’s kryptonite.
    Christian Babcock, Mercury News, 23 June 2026
  • At least in comparison to Gragson being punched by Ross Chastain at the Kansas Speedway three years ago.
    Alex Kalinauckas, New York Times, 23 June 2026
Verb
  • Commentary and opinions In his latest column, Michael Hiltzik punctures the myth of Alan Greenspan, whose policies gave us the Great Recession.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 25 June 2026
  • Where there’s normally carpet or hardwood floors, there are rocks, puncturing bare feet with each step.
    Daniel Flick, AJC.com, 25 June 2026
Verb
  • In an interview, McOsker said there is already space set aside for trucks to wait to access the port.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 27 June 2026
  • Remove or adjust the racks if desired to easily access the oven bottom.
    Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 26 June 2026
Verb
  • Perched on a finger of land that pokes into Lebanon, Metula is usually crowded with tourists this time of year.
    Tal Shalev, CNN Money, 23 June 2026
  • The second is a vent which pokes out above your clothes, to move warm air away from you.
    David Phelan, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Pierce.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pierce. Accessed 29 Jun. 2026.

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