poignant

Definition

Sharp-pointed; keen.

Etymology

From Middle English poynaunt, poynant, borrowed from Anglo-Norman puignant, poynaunt etc., present participle of poindre (“to prick”), from Latin pungō (“prick”). Doublet of pungent.

Example Sentences

• "His siluer shield, now idle maisterlesse; / His poynant speare, that many made to bleed [...]."
• "A poignant reply will garner more credence than hours of blown smoke."
• "Flipping through his high school yearbook evoked many a poignant memory of yesteryear."