I. ˈpēk noun
Date: 1592
: a transient feeling of wounded vanity : resentment
a fit of pique
Synonyms: see offense
II. transitive verb
( piqued ; piqu·ing )
Etymology: French piquer, literally, to prick — more at pike
Date: 1669
1. : to arouse anger or resentment in : irritate
what pique s linguistic conservatives — T. H. Middleton
2.
a. : to excite or arouse especially by a provocation, challenge, or rebuff
sly remarks to pique their curiosity
b. : pride
he pique s himself on his skill as a cook
Synonyms: see provoke