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
verbpricked; 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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Time Traveler for prick
The first known use of prick was before the 12th century
See more words from the same century