pungent

Definition

Having a strong odor that stings the nose; said especially of acidic or spicy substances.

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin pungens (stem pungent-), present participle of pungo (“to sting”). Doublet of poignant.

Example Sentences

• "I accidentally dropped the bottle of ammonia and after few seconds, a very pungent stench could be detected."
• "Pilton Yard, the Lynton & Barnstaple headquarters, has been taken over by a fur trading firm, and would-be trespassers to the old engine-shed are turned back by the pungent odour of heaps of carcases."
• "I can almost smell the fir scent... resinous, pungent."