Piquant
/ˈpiː.kənt/noun
Having a pleasantly sharp taste or appetizing flavor.
Did you know?The word 'piquant' is derived from the idea of a 'prick' or 'sting' in taste, evoking sensations of not just flavor but of emotional sharpness and vivacity.
Etymological Timeline
Late Latin
Latin
picans
“stinging or prickling, as in taste.”
Old French
Old French
piquant
“sharp, pungent, or stimulating.”
Early Modern English
English
piquant
“having a sharp taste or flavor; stimulating to the palate.”
Modern English
English
piquant
“notably sharp or tangy in flavor; exciting or stimulating.”