/ ˈpenɪtreɪtɪŋ; NAmE / adjective
1.
( of sb's eyes or the way they look at you ) making you feel uncomfortable because the person seems to know what you are thinking :
penetrating blue eyes
a penetrating gaze / look / stare
2.
( of a sound or voice ) loud and hard
SYN piercing :
Her voice was shrill and penetrating.
3.
showing that you have understood sth quickly and completely :
a penetrating comment / criticism / question
4.
spreading deeply or widely :
a penetrating smell
the penetrating cold / damp