pique
pronunciation
How to pronounce pique in British English:
UK [pi:k]
How to pronounce pique in American English:
US [pik]
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- Noun:
- tightly woven fabric with raised cords
- a sudden outburst of anger
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- Verb:
- cause to feel resentment or indignation
Word Origin
- pique
- pique: see pick
- pique (v.)
- "to excite to anger," 1670s, from French piquer "to prick, sting" (see pike (n.2)). Softened meaning "to stimulate, excite" is from 1690s. Related: Piqued; piquing.
- pique (n.)
- 1530s, "fit of ill feeling," from Middle French pique "a prick, sting, irritation," noun of action from piquer (see pike (n.2)).
Example
- 1. Classic franchises unique to the nintendo brand are a must-have to pique buyers ' interest .
- 2. If you 've been on the receiving end of one , did it pique your interest ?
- 3. He resigned in a fit of pique .
- 4. But pique will not be taking a similar route , his future lies firmly at old trafford .
- 5. The ever-affable mr zuma will no doubt manage to brush off any lasting diplomatic pique .