Pique, v. t. [imp. & p. p.Piqued (?); p. pr. & vb. n.Piquing (?).] [F. piquer. See Pike.] 1. To wound the pride of; to sting; to nettle; to irritate; to fret; to offend; to excite to anger.
Pique her, and soothe in turn. Byron.
2. To excite to action by causing resentment or jealousy; to stimulate; to prick; as, to pique ambition, or curiosity. Prior.
3. To pride or value; — used reflexively.
Men... pique themselves upon their skill. Locke.
Syn. — To offend; displease; irritate; provoke; fret; nettle; sting; goad; stimulate.