What does pierced mean?
Pierced is the past-tense and past-participle form of pierce and is also used attributively to describe something that has a hole through it or has been penetrated. In everyday use, the adjective most often appears in the context of body modification and jewelry: pierced ears, a pierced nose, or a pierced lip. The word can also describe an object marked by a hole, such as a pierced shield or a surface damaged by an impact. As a verb form, pierced describes the completed action of penetrating something with a sharp point, as in an arrow that pierced the target. Its figurative use, particularly in the phrase 'pierced the heart', conveys a strong emotional response. Although the literal meaning is precise, the word carries a slightly intense or dramatic quality in poetic and figurative contexts.
Having a hole or holes made through something, or made wearable by passing jewelry or another item through it.
"The model had a pierced septum and several small hoop earrings."
Often used in descriptions of body jewelry and body modification, as in 'pierced ears'.
The past tense and past participle of pierce, meaning to make a hole in or penetrate something.
"The needle pierced her fingertip."
The form can also have figurative meanings, such as penetrating emotionally or affecting someone deeply.
A pierced ear is more than a fashion choice: it is a tiny example of how one precise action can transform an object and its meaning.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pierced come from?
The word comes from Old French piercer, meaning 'to pierce' or 'to penetrate', which was derived from the Latin verb pertundere or percussus, associated with striking or boring through. The modern English verb 'pierce' developed with meanings including making a hole in, forcing an entrance, and penetrating emotionally. The form 'pierced' is simply the regular past tense and past participle of that inherited verb.
Related word forms
How pierced is actually used
The form is commonly used as the past tense or past participle of the verb 'pierce'. As an adjective, it is especially frequent in expressions involving pierced ears, noses, lips, and other body jewelry; in literary contexts, it can describe a powerful or heartrending emotional effect.
Easily confused with pierced
A pierced object or body part has a hole through it, whereas a piercing sound is sharp, loud, or emotionally moving.
Piqued means irritated or stimulated by curiosity, while pierced refers to being penetrated or having a hole made through something.