poignancy

[ poin-yuhn-see, poin-uhn- ]

noun

, plural poign·an·cies

1. the state or condition of being poignant.
2. a poignant moment, event, situation, or the like.

Word History and Origins

Origin of poignancy¹

First recorded in 1680–90; poign(ant) + -ancy

Example Sentences

Singer Art Garfunkel, who with Paul Simon provided a 1960s soundtrack for baby boomers, delivers poignancy if not vocal perfection in Costa Mesa.

From Los Angeles Times

There’s an immense poignancy to such moments, literally watching history moving out of sight.

From BBC

A Coventry event on Saturday, involving a gig with local bands, will add poignancy, organisers say, given the city's history of brutal racist killings and violent assaults.

From BBC

These existential musings may account for the gauzy, melancholy mood that informs the songs of “Que Llueva Tequila” — a prism that adds poignancy to his singing.

From Los Angeles Times

“This wonderful, perfectly-balanced image is full of light, shadow, mystery and poignancy,” said Caroline Kenyon, founder of the Pink Lady competition.

From BBC

Related Words

• pathos
• sadness