# pique

/ˈpik/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pique
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a sudden feeling of anger or irritation. It is also a feeling of pride or satisfaction that makes you want to show off.

For teachers: a sudden feeling of irritation or resentment; alternatively, a sense of pride or self-importance that prompts a desire to display one's superiority.

## Examples

- His pride was wounded by the criticism, which gave him a sudden pique.
- The diplomat's carefully worded response was designed to avoid giving the ambassador any reason for a pique.
- The protagonist's journey is driven by a deep-seated pique that transforms his initial curiosity into a relentless pursuit of recognition among his peers.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.