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.
"It was piercing and extremely loud. I thought it was an older child doing it, but then I realised it was the baby who was screaming," he told the court.
From BBC ● Apr. 29, 2026
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
And now, clear, shrill, exultant the song of brass was piercing the room itself.
From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White
