of memories, experiences, etc: causing pangs of distress or pity; painfully sad
said of reflections, memories, experiences, etc: causing or renewing distress or pity; painfully sad
Her whole attitude and bearing brought to Sépincourt the poignant, the bewildering conviction that he held no place in her thoughts — Kate Chopin
said of regret or distress: acute; bitter
If the distress be not poignant enough to keep the eyes unclosed, they will be sure to open to sensations of softened pain and brighter hope — Jane Austen
archaic to the point; apt
Her illustrations were apposite and poignant — Charles Lamb
poignance noun
poignancy /-si/ noun
poignantly adv
[Middle English poinaunt from early French poignant, present part. of poindre to prick, from Latin pungere to prick, sting]