pierce
verb (used with object)
to penetrate into or run through (something), as a sharp, pointed dagger, object, or instrument does.
was piercing
-
past progressiveof pierce.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
To say all Hell broke loose after that is an overstatement, but the barrage of counterpoints was piercing.
From Salon ● Apr. 2, 2026
The sight of a mother and daughter together was piercing.
From Seattle Times ● Oct. 31, 2023
Peyton began to cry; it was piercing for her parents.
From The New Yorker ● Dec. 10, 2018
By that night, he said the pain was piercing.
From Washington Post ● Jan. 30, 2015
A single shaft of golden sunshine was piercing the jungle’s canopy, shining light directly on the jeweled hilt of Koffi's jino blade.
From "Beasts of Prey" by Ayana Gray
