sting
UK: stɪŋ | US: stɪŋ
n. a sharp pain caused by a pointed object or venom (e.g., from an insect or plant)
vt. to pierce or wound with a sharp-pointed structure (e.g., a bee stings)
vi. to cause a sharp, sudden pain (literal or figurative)
The word "sting" traces back to Old English stingan, meaning "to pierce or prick," likely derived from Proto-Germanic stinganą. It retains its core sense of sharp, sudden penetration—whether physical (e.g., a bee’s sting) or emotional (e.g., a stinging remark). The simplicity of its monosyllabic form reflects its ancient Germanic roots, where it described the action of pointed objects or venomous attacks. Over time, it expanded metaphorically to describe any sharp, sudden pain or emotional hurt.
The bee’s sting left a red mark on her arm.
His harsh words stung her deeply.
The jellyfish can sting even after it’s dead.
She felt a sharp sting when the needle went in.
The cold wind stung their faces as they walked.