poignant
Say it: POY-nyunt /ˈpɔɪnjənt/ · adjective
What “poignant” means
Deeply moving in a way that brings sadness or regret.
More precisely: Evoking a keen sense of sadness or regret; deeply moving.
Example: “Her speech at the farewell party was both funny and poignant.”
When to use it
For a moment, story or detail that touches you through sadness. Common in thoughtful conversation and reviews.
Similar words
moving, touching, affecting
Where it comes from
From Old French poindre, "to prick," from Latin pungere.
Quick check
Finding your late father's worn gardening gloves beside the roses he planted brings tears. The moment is…
tragic or poignant?
Show the answer
poignant
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