poignancy

noun

poi·​gnan·​cy ˈpȯi-nyən(t)-sē 

 sometimes  ˈpȯi(g)-nən(t)-sē

plural poignancies

1

: the quality or state of being poignant

2

: an instance of poignancy

Synonyms

• bitterness
• bite
• edge
• poignance

Examples of poignancy in a Sentence

there was a poignancy to his wit that often left his targets smarting

Recent Examples on the Web

Billy Joel's documentary digs deep into past with poignancy – but he's 'not finished yet' Culture Club film delves into history filled with drama, Boy George, love and drugs ‘Walk of Fame’ The most compelling track on an album full of soaring choruses now has an equally absorbing video. —Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 8 June 2025

What lends a special poignancy to the story are the chapters narrated by Paige, reflecting deep regret for her life’s mistakes. —Sarah Lyall, New York Times, 1 June 2025

Audiences have responded rapturously to the film, moved by the intimacy of the storytelling and its surprising balance of poignancy and humor. —Matthew Carey, Deadline, 15 June 2025

The immediacy of these relations and connections contributes warmth and poignancy, but not necessarily deep insight into the man that Kaufman actually became. —Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 9 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1680, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

poignancy

noun

poi·​gnan·​cy ˈpȯi-nyən-sē 

: the quality or state of being poignant