Entry Word: pungent

Function: adjective

Meaning: 1 having a powerfully stimulating odor or flavor <a pungent chili> — see sharp 3
2 marked by the use of wit that is intended to cause hurt feelings <a pungent put-down that she will not soon forget> — see sarcastic
3 sharp and pleasantly stimulating to the mind or senses <a newspaper columnist known for his pungent observations on everyday life> — see piquant