CultureAugust 15, 2026

poignancy

POYN-yuhn-see

Definition

A quality that evokes a keen sense of sadness, regret, or deep emotional impact.

Etymology

Derived from the Middle French 'poignant,' meaning 'pricking' or 'stinging,' which traces back to the Latin 'pungere,' meaning 'to prick' or 'to pierce,' signifying something that touches the heart deeply.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe how the film's musical score finds emotional depth and resonance within the protagonist's darkest, most difficult moments.

'Mission' review: George MacKay is transcendent in this fever dream about living

Read the full article ↗

Mashable

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