Definition of pierce

The word "pierce" comes from the Old French "piercer" meaning "to pierce," which in turn comes from the Latin "percere" with the same meaning. The Latin word is derived from "per" meaning "through" and "caedere" meaning "to strike." The basic meaning of "pierce" is "to make a hole in or through something" or "to penetrate something." The verb "perceiv" is related, as it comes from the Latin "percipere" meaning "to catch through," i.e., "to understand." In medical terminology, "pierce" can refer to the act of inserting a needle or hollow tube (such as a catheter) into the body to extract fluid or administer medication. In construction, it can refer to the act of drilling a hole into a solid object. In food preparation, it can refer to piercing meat to tenderize it or adding piercings, such as olives, to a dish. Overall, "pierce" has a wide range of applications and meanings, demonstrating the versatility and evolution of the English language.