1. (v. t.) To thrust into, penetrate, or transfix, with a pointed instrument.

2. (v. t.) To penetrate; to enter; to force a way into or through; to pass into or through; as, to pierce the enemy's line; a shot pierced the ship.

3. (v. t.) Fig.: To penetrate; to affect deeply; as, to pierce a mystery.

4. (v. i.) To enter; to penetrate; to make a way into or through something, as a pointed instrument does; -- used literally and figuratively.