1. To cause a sharp, painful sensation:
- The bee stung her on the arm, and it immediately started to swell.
- The cold wind stung her cheeks, making them feel numb.
2. To feel a sharp, painful sensation:
- My eyes are stinging from the smoke.
- My stomach is stinging from the spicy food.
3. To cause emotional pain or distress:
- His harsh words stung her deeply, and she couldn't stop crying.
- The loss of her job stung her pride, and she felt humiliated.
4. (Of an insect) to pierce the skin with a sharp, venomous stinger:
- The wasp stung me on the ankle, and I had to go to the hospital.
- The scorpion stung the tourist, causing severe pain and swelling.
5. (Informal) to swindle or cheat someone:
- The salesman stung him into buying a car he couldn't afford.
- The company stung its customers by charging hidden fees.
The noun "sting" refers to the sharp, pointed part of an insect's body that it uses to sting. It can also mean a sharp, painful sensation or a feeling of emotional distress.