prick
UK: /prɪk/ | US: /prɪk/
n. 1. A small sharp point or puncture (e.g., from a needle or thorn).
n. 2. (Vulgar slang) A penis.
vt. 1. To pierce or make a small hole with a sharp point.
vt. 2. To cause a slight stinging pain.
vi. (Archaic) To spur or urge forward (e.g., a horse).
The word "prick" traces back to Old English prica, meaning "a point, dot, or small hole." It is related to Proto-Germanic prikojan ("to prick") and shares roots with Dutch prik ("sting") and German Prickeln ("to tingle"). The word's core meaning of "sharp point" expanded metaphorically over time, including vulgar slang usage (attested since the 16th century) and the archaic verb sense of "to spur." Its simplicity and vivid physicality kept it stable in English.
She felt a sharp prick when the needle touched her skin.
The cactus spines can prick your fingers if you’re not careful.
(Archaic) He pricked his horse to gallop faster.
(Slang, offensive) The comedian’s joke included a crude reference to "pricks."
The tailor pricked the fabric with a pin to mark the seam.