Definition of penetrating

The word "penetrating" traces its roots back to the Latin word "penetrare," meaning "to enter, to go through, to pierce." It entered English in the 14th century, initially referring to physical actions like piercing or entering a space. Over time, the word's meaning expanded to encompass figurative uses, describing things that can go deep into a subject or thought, or a gaze that seems to see through someone's facade. Its origin, however, remains firmly anchored in the idea of physically passing through something.