Synonyms of penetrate

penetrate

verb

ˈpe-nə-ˌtrāt 

as in to pierce

to go or come in or into

a needle penetrated the heavy canvas only with great effort

Synonyms & Similar Words

• pierce
• enter
• access
• invade
• set foot in
• step into
• burst (in or into)
• infiltrate
• breeze (in)
• encroach
• drop in
• pop (in)
• intrude
• trespass
• stray (into)
• waltz (in)
• infringe
• wander (into)
• barge (in)
• gate-crash
• crash

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• leave
• depart
• exit

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb penetrate differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of penetrate are enter, pierce, and probe. While all these words mean "to make way into something," penetrate carries a strong implication of an impelling force or compelling power that achieves entrance.

the enemy penetrated the fortress

When would enter be a good substitute for penetrate?

The words enter and penetrate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 pierce a more appropriate choice than penetrate?

While in some cases nearly identical to penetrate, pierce means an entering or cutting through with a sharp pointed instrument.

pierced the boil with a lancet

When can probe be used instead of penetrate?

The synonyms probe and penetrate 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

Recent Examples of penetrate

Plus, the silk proteins penetrate the cuticles to soften and boost shine so hair becomes more manageable and glistens in the light. —Mary Honkus, Glamour, 29 Oct. 2025

In initial clinical trials, Pamich said the company has seen the product's ability to enhance skin longevity and vitality when combined with Image's pre-existing formulations, including its technology that allows antioxidants to deeply penetrate the skin. —Laya Neelakandan, CNBC, 29 Oct. 2025

But the arrow zips either through the backstraps or the upper edges of the scapulae (which are surprisingly easy to penetrate). —Will Brantley, Outdoor Life, 29 Oct. 2025

When an autopsy was conducted on Campbell, it was discovered that seven of the 11 stab wounds penetrated her heart. —Greg Wehner, FOXNews.com, 29 Oct. 2025