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Definition of pungency

pungency

/ˈpʌndʒənsi/
pun · gen · cy
Adverb:pungently
•
Plural:pungencies
•
Adjective:pungent
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pungency Lexical Profile

pungency Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality of having a sharp, strong, or biting smell or taste.

Example

"Freshly grated horseradish adds a fierce pungency to the sauce."

2

The quality of being caustically direct, incisive, or biting in speech, writing, or wit.

Example

"The critic's review was memorable for the sheer pungency of its wit."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

pundit
punditry
pune
pungency
pungent
pungently
punica

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 17th century from the adjective 'pungent' and the noun suffix '-cy', ultimately deriving from the Latin verb 'pungere', meaning 'to prick' or 'to sting'.

Cite this Entry

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