verb
pique
To spark interest or curiosity.
The locked drawer piqued her curiosity.
Etymology
The French verb means to prick. Piquing curiosity figuratively gives the mind a small sharp stimulus that draws its attention.
More examples
- A brief mention of the discovery piqued his interest.
- The unusual title was enough to pique my attention.
- Their account of the island piqued our desire to visit.
Forms
pique · piques · piqued · piquing
Similar words
- arouse
- Arouse means bring a feeling into being; pique often describes awakening curiosity or interest.
- intrigue
- Intrigue sustains curiosity through something unusual or puzzling; pique can describe its first stirring.