First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1prick
noun \ˈprik\
Definition of PRICK
1
: a mark or shallow hole made by a pointed instrument
2
a : a pointed instrument or weapon b : a sharp projecting organ or part
3
4
usually vulgar : penis
5
usually vulgar : a spiteful or contemptible man often having some authority
See prick defined for English-language learners
See prick defined for kids
Origin of PRICK
Middle English prikke, from Old English prica; akin to Middle Dutch pric prick
2prick
verb
: to make a very small hole in (something) with a sharp pointed object
: to cause a sharp, painful feeling on or in (part of your body)
: to make (someone) feel guilt, shame, regret, etc.
Full Definition of PRICK
transitive verb
1
: to pierce slightly with a sharp point
2
: to affect with anguish, grief, or remorse <doubt began to prick him — Philip Hale>
3
: to ride, guide, or urge on with or as if with spurs : goad
4
: to mark, distinguish, or note by means of a small mark
5
: to trace or outline with punctures
6
: to remove (a young seedling) from the seedbed to another suitable for further growth —usually used with out
7
: to cause to be or stand erect <a dog pricking its ears>
intransitive verb
1
2
a : to urge a horse with the spur b : to ride fast
3
: thrust
See prick defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of PRICK
before 12th century
PRICK Defined for Kids
1prick
noun \ˈprik\
Definition of PRICK for Kids
1
: an act of piercing with a small sharp point
2
: a feeling of pain that accompanies a piercing of the skin with a sharp point
3
: a sudden strong feeling <a prick of conscience>
2prick
verb
prickedprick·ing
Definition of PRICK for Kids
1
: to point upward <The horse pricked up its ears.>
2
: to pierce slightly with a sharp point
3
: to have or to cause a feeling of or as if of being pierced with a sharp point
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