What does prick mean?
Prick has both a literal and a figurative range of meanings. Literally, it refers to a small sharp point or thorn and to the stinging sensation such a point can cause; as a verb, it means to puncture something or produce that sensation. Figuratively, a prick can be a prickling pain or feeling, and “a prick of conscience” means a slight feeling of guilt. The word can also be used as a vulgar noun for the penis and as an informal, insulting label for someone regarded as contemptible or annoying. These meanings are related through the idea of a sharp point or sensation, but the figurative and vulgar uses may be confrontational depending on context. In expressions such as “prick up your ears,” the word conveys sudden alertness or interest.
A small sharp pointed object or projection, especially a thorn; also the sharp sensation caused by such a point.
"She felt a prick when the cactus scratched her arm."
The sense referring to the penis is vulgar. The sense referring to an unpleasant person is informal and insulting.
To puncture or pierce something with a sharp point, or to cause a sharp stinging sensation.
"The needle pricked his finger as he drew blood."
In figurative use, it can mean to irritate or affect someone with a pointed remark.
The plural is used for individual sharp points or projections and, in the informal insulting sense, for unpleasant people.
"The cactus was covered with sharp pricks."
A prick can be a tiny thorn, a sharp sensation, or—when aimed at someone—a surprisingly cutting insult.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does prick come from?
The word comes through Middle English, where forms such as prik and prikke were used for a pointed object, thorn, or stinging sensation. It developed from Old English prica, related to the Germanic family of words meaning a point or small sharp object. The modern English meanings extended figuratively from the physical sensation of being pricked, while later usage also developed the vulgar anatomical and insulting senses.
Related word forms
How prick is actually used
The anatomical sense is vulgar. The sense meaning an unpleasant person is informal and can be openly insulting, though it is less severe than some stronger profanities. As a verb, the word is often used in contexts involving a sharp point, a thorn, or a stinging sensation.
Easily confused with prick
A prickle is a small sharp or stinging sensation, or the small spine on a plant, whereas a prick is more often the pointed projection itself.
To prick is to pierce or puncture, while to pick is to choose, collect, or remove something with the fingers or a tool.