# stinger

/ˈstɪŋɝ/ (US) · /stˈɪŋɡɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

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

## Definition

a sharp, pointed object that can cause a lot of pain, like a bee's needle or a knife. In a more modern sense, it can also mean a powerful ending to a story or a movie that leaves a strong impression.

For teachers: a sharp, pointed instrument or appendage used for piercing or injecting venom. In a figurative sense, it refers to a powerful, memorable conclusion to a narrative or performance.

## Examples

- The bee's stinger is very painful if it gets you.
- The documentary ends with a powerful stinger that shows the impact of the policy on local families.
- The director used a clever stinger at the end of the film to tie the protagonist's personal journey back to the central mystery of the plot.

---

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.