Poign'ant, a.

(poin'ant), a. [Fr. poignant, p. pr. of O. Fr. poindre, to sting, from Lat. pungere, to prick, sting; Pr. ponhen, poingnen, Sp. pungente, It. pungente, pungente, Lat. pungens.]

1. Stimulating to the organs of taste; stinging; sharp; pungent; pricking;—said of that which is tasted. “No poignant sauce she knew.” Dryden.
2. Acutely painful; piercing; irritating; severe; bitter.

His wit, naturally shrewd and dry, became more lively and poignant. W. Scott.