Poignancy

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˈpɔɪnjən(t)si/

Definitions

1. The trait of evoking strong emotional responses through depth and sensitivity is often felt in meaningful experiences
2. The quality of causing intense feelings of sorrow or regret
3. An attribute that stirs profound emotional pain or tenderness

Etymology: "Poignancy" comes from the Old French "poindre," meaning "to prick" or "to sting," which descends from Latin "pungere," "to pierce." The same root gave English "pungent," and the idea of a sharp physical sting carried over into feeling: something poignant pricks the heart rather than merely touching it. The adjective "poignant" entered English through French, and the noun "poignancy" was formed from it in English. The word first described physical sharpness, such as a bitter taste or a keen smell, before it came to describe emotional pain. Over time the sense of sharpness faded into the softer, more melancholy meaning of deep sadness that can also be tender and moving.

Synonyms: sensitivity, sadness, emotion, depth, intensity

Antonyms: indifference, apathy, insensitivity, disregard, unconcern