impale
What does "impale" mean?
To impale means to pierce or transfix something with a sharp, pointed object. The mental image is that of a spear or spike passing entirely through a soft object or body, pinning it in place. It implies a forceful, sudden, and often violent penetration. While you might use it literally in contexts like history, biology, or accident reports, it is also used metaphorically to describe being stuck by sharp objects like thorns or, more abstractly, being "impaled" by a difficult dilemma or a sharp gaze. It is a precise, heavy word that carries a sense of permanence or severe injury.
"impale" in conversation
Gardening mishap
Ouch! I just impaled my hand on a rose thorn.
Ouch! I just impaled my hand on a rose thorn.
That looks deep, let me get the first aid kit.
That looks deep, let me get the first aid kit.
Used here to describe a sharp puncture wound.
Historical documentary
The castle defenses included stakes designed to impale attackers.
The castle defenses included stakes designed to impale attackers.
That is a grim image of medieval warfare.
That is a grim image of medieval warfare.
Describes a defensive, lethal application of the word.
"impale" in a sentence
The insect was impaled on a needle for display.
The insect was impaled on a needle for display.
The knight's spear impaled the shield of his opponent.
The knight's spear impaled the shield of his opponent.
The driver was impaled by the steering column during the high-speed collision.
The driver was impaled by the steering column during the high-speed collision.
