pinprick
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈpɪnprɪk/
KK: /ˈpɪnˌprɪk/
noun
Definition
A small hole or mark made by a pin, or a minor annoyance that is not very serious.
Example
The pinprick on my finger didn't hurt much, but it was annoying.
Conversation
Did you feel that little pinprick when you sat down?
Yeah, I thought it was just my imagination at first.
It's such a minor annoyance, but it really caught me off guard.
I know what you mean! It's like those tiny things can be so distracting.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
irritation
nuisance
puncture
Antonyms
relief
comfort
ease
transitive verb
Definition
To make a small hole in something using a sharp point, like a pin.
Example
She used a needle to pinprick the balloon to let the air out.
Tense Forms
Past: pinpricked
Past Participle: pinpricked
Conversation
I accidentally pinpricked my finger while opening a package.
Ouch! That sounds painful, are you okay?
Yeah, it just stings a little; I didn't expect it to be so sharp.
Root Explanation
Pinprick → It is formed from "pin" (from Old English "pinn", meaning a small pointed object) and "prick" (from Old English "priccan", meaning to pierce or puncture). The word "pinprick" refers to a small puncture made by a pin, often used metaphorically to describe a minor irritation or annoyance.
Memory Tip
Think of a small pointed object ('pin') that 'pierces' ('prick') — that's why a pinprick is a tiny puncture that can cause a little irritation.
Visually Confused Words
upprick
piperic