pungent
/ˈpʌndʒənt/adjective★Intermediate
formal
Having a strong, sharp, or unpleasant smell or taste
The pungent odor of garlic filled the kitchen.
The strong smell of garlic was overwhelming.
The pungent taste of the hot sauce made his eyes water.
The sharp, spicy flavor of the sauce was intense.
💡
Often used to describe strong, unpleasant smells or tastes, but can also describe strong pleasant smells like spices.
Collocations
pungent smella strong, sharp, or unpleasant odorpungent odora strong, sharp, or unpleasant smellpungent tastea strong, sharp, or unpleasant flavor
Synonyms
Antonyms
💡Pro Tip
Usage Tip
Use 'pungent' to describe strong smells or tastes, whether pleasant or unpleasant.
📖Word Origin
From Latin 'pungere' meaning 'to prick' or 'to sting', referring to a sharp or piercing sensation.
📝Usage Notes
Can be used for both pleasant and unpleasant strong smells or tastes, depending on context.
Word Breakdown
pung
sharp or piercing
root-ent
having the quality of
suffixEnglish Dictionary