poignant

The definition of poignant is something that has a strong effect on emotions or the senses, especially smell.

(adjective)

An example of poignant is the anniversary of September 11th for those who lost loved ones in the 2001 attacks.

See poignant in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adjective

1. sharp or pungent to the smell or, formerly, the taste
2. keenly affecting the other senses: poignant beauty
1. sharply painful to the feelings; piercing
2. evoking pity, compassion, etc.; emotionally touching or moving
sharp, biting, penetrating, pointed, etc.: poignant wit

Origin: ME poynant < MFr poignant, prp. of poindre < L pungere, to prick: see point

Related Forms:

See poignant in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adjective

a. Profoundly moving; touching: a poignant memory. See Synonyms at moving.
b. Physically painful: “Keen, poignant agonies seemed to shoot from his neck downward” (Ambrose Bierce).
c. Keenly distressing to the mind or feelings: poignant anxiety.
Piercing; incisive: poignant criticism.
a. Neat, skillful, and to the point: poignant illustrations supplementing the text.
b. Astute and pertinent; relevant: poignant suggestions.
Agreeably intense or stimulating: poignant delight.
Archaic
a. Sharp or sour to the taste; piquant.
b. Sharp or pungent to the smell.