Pĕn'e-trā/tive, a.

a. [It., Sp., & Pg. penetrativo, Pr. penetratiu, Fr. pénétratif.]

1. Tending to penetrate; of penetrative quality; piercing; sharp; subtle; sagacious; discerning; as, penetrative wisdom. Swift.
2. Having the power to affect or impress the mind; as, penetrative shame. Shak.