Pique, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Piqued p. pr. & vb. n. Piquing ]
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.
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.