pang
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /pæŋ/
KK: /pæŋ/
noun
Definition
A sudden and sharp feeling of pain or emotional distress.
Example
She felt a pang of guilt after lying to her friend.
Conversation
I felt a sudden pang of sadness when I saw that old photo.
Yeah, those memories can really hit hard sometimes.
It's strange how a picture can bring back such a strong pang of emotion.
Definitely, it's like the past comes rushing back all at once.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
spasm
twinge
throb
Antonyms
comfort
ease
relief
transitive verb
Definition
To make someone feel a sharp feeling of pain or distress.
Example
The news of her departure gave him a pang of sadness.
Tense Forms
Past: panged
Past Participle: panged
Conversation
I felt a sudden pang of guilt after our argument yesterday.
Yeah, it was a tough conversation, wasn't it?
I didn't mean to pang you with my words.
Root Explanation
The word 'pang' originates from Middle English 'pang' (meaning a sudden sharp pain) and is derived from the Old English 'panga' (meaning a sudden pain or spasm).
Memory Tip
Think of a sudden sharp pain or spasm when you hear 'pang' — it directly relates to the feeling of a quick, intense discomfort.
Visually Confused Words
spang
plang
pan
uphang
upgang
sprang
pisang
pinang