Meaning & use
sting
To cause a sharp, burning pain, as an insect, plant, or chemical might.
See it in a sentence
A wasp stung him on the arm while he was mowing the lawn.
Her harsh criticism left a sting that lasted long after the meeting ended.
A note on using this word
As a noun, sting can also describe a lasting feeling of hurt from criticism or betrayal, not just physical pain.
Words with a similar meaning
prickbite
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Another way to use it
2. noun
A carefully planned operation, often by police, designed to catch someone committing a crime.
Undercover officers ran a sting to catch the counterfeit ticket sellers.
Make it your own
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