[prick] n [ME prikke, fr. OE prica; akin to MD pric prick] (bef. 12c) 1: a mark or shallow hole made by a pointed instrument
2. a: a pointed instrument or weapon b: a sharp projecting organ or part
3: an instance of pricking or the sensation of being pricked: as a: a nagging or sharp feeling of remorse, regret, or sorrow b: a slight sharply localized discomfort "the ~ of a needle"
4: penis--usu. considered vulgar
5: a spiteful or contemptible man often having some authority--usu. considered vulgar
[2]prick vt (bef. 12c) 1: to pierce slightly with a sharp point
2: to affect with anguish, grief, or remorse "doubt began to ~ him --Philip Hale"
3: to ride, guide, or urge on with or as if with spurs: goad
4: to mark, distinguish, or note by means of a small mark
5: to trace or outline with punctures
6: to remove (a young seedling) from the seedbed to another suitable for further growth--usu. used with out 7: to cause to be or stand erect "a dog ~ing its ears" ~ vi 1 a: to prick something or cause a pricking sensation b: to feel discomfort as if from being pricked
2. a: to urge a horse with the spur b: to ride fast
3: thrust
4: to become directed upward: point -- prick up one's ears : to listen intently