“Pungent” implies a sharp stinging or biting quality, especially of odors, so it’s not too surprising to discover the Latin verb “pungere” (“to prick, sting”) at its root. “Compunction,” “poignant,” “puncture,” and “punctual” share the same pointy root, and their meanings reflect its influence.

What is a word for pungent?

piquant
Some common synonyms of pungent are piquant, poignant, and racy. While all these words mean “sharp and stimulating to the mind or the senses,” pungent implies a sharp, stinging, or biting quality especially of odors.

What does piquant flavor mean?

Definition of piquant 1 : engagingly provocative also : having a lively arch charm. 2 : agreeably stimulating to the taste especially : spicy.

What is the best synonyms for pungent?

pungent

• racy.
• rich.
• seasoned.
• snappy.
• stinking.
• strong.
• tart.
• whiffy.

What is an example of pungent?

The definition of pungent is something with a strong smell or taste, or something directly to the point. An example of something pungent is the smell of garlic. An example of a pungent remark is the witty satire of a comedian. Affecting the organs of taste or smell with a sharp acrid sensation.

Is a pungent smell?

pungent Add to list Share. Use pungent to describe a taste or smell that gives a sharp sensation. “What is that pungent odor?” is a polite way of suggesting that someone in the room has BO. The ultimate source of the word pungent is Latin pungere “to prick, sting.” Ginger and mustard seed are examples of pungent spices …

Is pungent a good smell?

Something that is pungent has a strong, sharp smell or taste which is often so strong that it is unpleasant.

What’s a pungent smell?

Something that is pungent has a strong, sharp smell or taste which is often so strong that it is unpleasant. pungency uncountable noun [usually with poss]

What does piquant smell like?

Pungency is the condition of having a strong, sharp smell or flavor. Highly pungent tastes may be experienced as unpleasant. The term piquancy (/ˈpiːkənsi/) is sometimes applied to foods with a lower degree of pungency that are “agreeably stimulating to the palate”.

What is pungent principle?

Zingerone, a major pungent component of ginger,1) is used as a flavor because it smells spicy and sweet. Zingerone belongs to vanilloids such as capsaicin and eugenol, and is known for activating TRPV1, a receptor responding to heat and pain. 2)

Is pungent taste or smell?

Something that is pungent has a strong, sharp smell or taste which is often so strong that it is unpleasant. The more herbs you use, the more pungent the sauce will be.