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Definition of poignancy

poignancy

/ˈpɔɪ.njən.si/
poign · an · cy
Adverb:poignantly
•
Plural:poignancies
•
Adjective:poignant
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poignancy Lexical Profile

poignancy Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality of evoking a keen sense of sadness, regret, or deep emotional resonance.

Example

"The old family photographs took on a new poignancy after her grandmother passed away."

2

Sharpness or pungency of taste, smell, or mental perception.

Example

"Critics praised the essay for the sheer poignancy of its social commentary."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

pogrom
poi
poignance
poignancy
poignant
poignantly
poinsettia

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the adjective poignant, which entered Middle English from Old French poignant, the present participle of poindre ('to prick or sting'), ultimately from the Latin verb pungere ('to prick or pierce').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Poignancy. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/poignancy
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