stinging

UK: ˈstɪŋɪŋ | US: ˈstɪŋɪŋ

Definition

  1. adj. causing a sharp, burning pain

  2. adj. (of remarks) harsh or critical

  3. v. present participle of "sting"

Structure
sting <sharp pain>ing <present participle suffix>
Etymology

The word "sting" originates from Old English stingan, meaning "to pierce or prick," related to Proto-Germanic stinganą. The core idea of sharp, sudden pain persists in its modern usage. The suffix -ing forms the present participle, indicating an ongoing action or state. Combined, "stinging" vividly conveys the sensation or effect of being pierced—whether physically (e.g., a bee’s sting) or metaphorically (e.g., a stinging remark).

Examples

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