Definition of prick
(Entry 1 of 2)
1
: a mark or shallow hole made by a pointed instrument
2a
: a pointed instrument or weapon
b
: a sharp projecting organ or part
a
: a nagging or sharp feeling of remorse, regret, or sorrow
b
: a slight sharply localized discomfort
the prick of a needle
5
slang, vulgar
: a spiteful or contemptible man often having some authority
prick
verb
pricked; pricking; pricks
Definition of prick (Entry 2 of 2)
1
: to pierce slightly with a sharp point
2
: to affect with anguish, grief, or remorse
doubt began to prick him— Philip Hale
3
: to ride, guide, or urge on with or as if with spurs : goad
4
: to mark, distinguish, or note by means of a small mark
5
: to trace or outline with punctures
6
: to remove (a young seedling) from the seedbed to another suitable for further growth
—usually used with out
7
: to cause to be or stand erect
a dog pricking its ears
1a
: to prick something or cause a pricking sensation
b
: to feel discomfort as if from being pricked
2a
: to urge a horse with the spur
b
: to ride fast
3
: thrust
4
: to become directed upward : point
prick up one's ears
: to listen intently
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for prick
The first known use of prick was before the 12th century
See more words from the same century