Definition of piquantnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective piquant contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of piquant are poignant, pungent, and racy. While all these words mean "sharp and stimulating to the mind or the senses," piquant suggests a power to whet the appetite or interest through tartness or mild pungency.

a piquant sauce

In what contexts can poignant take the place of piquant?

Although the words poignant and piquant have much in common, poignant suggests something is sharply or piercingly effective in stirring one's emotions.

felt a poignant sense of loss

When is it sensible to use pungent instead of piquant?

The synonyms pungent and piquant are sometimes interchangeable, but pungent implies a sharp, stinging, or biting quality especially of odors.

a cheese with a pungent odor

When might racy be a better fit than piquant?

The words racy and piquant can be used in similar contexts, but racy implies having a strongly characteristic natural quality fresh and unimpaired.

spontaneous, racy prose

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of piquant The comments section features a piquant blend of solemnity, mortification, tastelessness, and transphobia, which accords with Moreschi’s reception in his lifetime. Dan Piepenbring, Harpers Magazine, 27 Jan. 2026 Sustained support from the strings gives way to watery ripples and busy chatters, with piquant harmonic implications. Scott Cantrell, Dallas Morning News, 23 Jan. 2026 It is often topped with crispy and raw onions, slathered with piquant sauces (including rémoulade and sweet brown mustard), and served on a toasted bun. Lauren Breedlove, Travel + Leisure, 16 Nov. 2025 Cosplay furthers the cause with a dazzling array of comic pop culture references, repurposed arcana, and piquant sonic signifiers from the annals of indie-rock. Nina Corcoran, Pitchfork, 7 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for piquant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for piquant
Adjective
  • Wild Arugula While standard arugula may be part of many reasonably priced salad mixes, the deliciously spicy, dainty wild arugula fetches premium prices of $4 to $6 for a 5-ounce bunch.
    Nadia Hassani, The Spruce, 29 June 2026
  • Modales leans into cold-hardy grapes varieties like blaufränkisch, the spicy Austrian red variety that has become a favorite by-the-glass pour at Ox Bar.
    Anna Lee Iijima, Chicago Tribune, 29 June 2026
Adjective
  • The body was inside a bag in the trunk of a gray vehicle, which was opened by police due to its pungent smell.
    CBS News, CBS News, 14 June 2026
  • The body was inside a bag in the trunk of a gray vehicle, which was opened by police due to its pungent smell.
    ABC News, ABC News, 13 June 2026
Adjective
  • This scene is funny as well as poignant because Albert was played by the late Rob Reiner.
    Jen Chaney, Vulture, 26 June 2026
  • The most poignant moment came later in the day when the client visited George Michael’s final resting place.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 24 June 2026
Adjective
  • Available in black, white, olive green, and a zesty chartreuse hue with subtle floral stitching, the tote is an ideal companion for work commutes, travel days, beach outings, and even as a diaper bag alternative.
    Better Homes & Gardens, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 June 2026
  • Made with a base of sparkling wine and zesty Valencia orange juice, this effervescent wine is bright, dry, and refreshing.
    Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 25 June 2026
Adjective
  • Cherry trees showcase beautiful blooms in the spring and produce delicious fruit in late spring and early summer.
    SJ McShane, Martha Stewart, 27 June 2026
  • The spinach and feta pastry was delicious, salty enough from the cheese filling and not too heavy.
    Eva Flowe June 27, Charlotte Observer, 27 June 2026
Adjective
  • Specifically, this is jiángxiāng baijiu, a designation referring to its particular aroma and flavor, which is said to be very savory.
    Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 29 June 2026
  • Others skip the consumer and sell those profiles to advertisers, researchers, or less savory customers, such as identity thieves.
    Neil J. Rubenking, PC Magazine, 25 June 2026
Adjective
  • Not the most exciting half of soccer considering what else has gone on during the World Cup.
    Monica Alba, NBC news, 24 June 2026
  • Johnny is a former professional baseball player, which is exciting for Coop, who comes from a family of ball players.
    Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 23 June 2026
Adjective
  • Stoke the mix with 2 cups of corn and crispy, salty pancetta (bacon’s thinner, quicker-cooking cousin).
    Katlyn Moncada, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 June 2026
  • The spinach and feta pastry was delicious, salty enough from the cheese filling and not too heavy.
    Eva Flowe June 27, Charlotte Observer, 27 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Piquant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/piquant. Accessed 1 Jul. 2026.

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