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Definition of pique


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pique  audio  (pk) KEY  

NOUN:
A state of vexation caused by a perceived slight or indignity; a feeling of wounded pride.
TRANSITIVE VERB:
piqued , piqu·ing , piques
  1. To cause to feel resentment or indignation.
  2. To provoke; arouse: The portrait piqued her curiosity.
  3. To pride (oneself): He piqued himself on his stylish attire.

ETYMOLOGY:
French, a prick, irritation, from Old French, from piquer, to prick, from Vulgar Latin *piccre, ultimately of imitative origin


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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition.
Copyright © 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
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