poignancy

noun

poi·​gnan·​cy ˈpȯi-nyən(t)-sē How to pronounce poignancy (audio)
 sometimes  ˈpȯi(g)-nən(t)-sē
plural poignancies
1
: the quality or state of being poignant
2
: an instance of poignancy

Examples of poignancy in a Sentence

there was a poignancy to his wit that often left his targets smarting
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Billy Joel's documentary digs deep into past with poignancy – but he's 'not finished yet' Culture Club film delves into history filled with drama, Boy George, love and drugs ‘Walk of Fame’ The most compelling track on an album full of soaring choruses now has an equally absorbing video. Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 8 June 2025 What lends a special poignancy to the story are the chapters narrated by Paige, reflecting deep regret for her life’s mistakes. Sarah Lyall, New York Times, 1 June 2025 Audiences have responded rapturously to the film, moved by the intimacy of the storytelling and its surprising balance of poignancy and humor. Matthew Carey, Deadline, 15 June 2025 The immediacy of these relations and connections contributes warmth and poignancy, but not necessarily deep insight into the man that Kaufman actually became. Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 9 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for poignancy

Word History

First Known Use

1680, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of poignancy was in 1680

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Poignancy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/poignancy. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

poignancy

noun
poi·​gnan·​cy ˈpȯi-nyən-sē How to pronounce poignancy (audio)
: the quality or state of being poignant

More from Merriam-Webster on poignancy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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