sting
Meaning
(of an insect, plant, or animal) to wound by piercing with a sharp, often poisonous, pointed part
to cause or feel a sharp, burning pain
the sharp, often poisonous, pointed part of an insect or animal that is used for wounding
a sharp, burning pain or a hurtful feeling
Usage
a bee stung him on the arm.
the antiseptic may sting a little when applied to the cut.
he felt the sting of her harsh criticism.
Etymology
The word "sting" originates from the Old English verb "stingan," meaning "to pierce or stab." This term is of Germanic origin, related to Old Norse "stinga" and Middle Low German "stingen." It is ultimately traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root (s)teŋ-, meaning "to prick or pierce." The core concept of a sharp, penetrating action has remained remarkably consistent, evolving from a general term for piercing to the specific action of an insect or plant, and metaphorically to describe a sharp, sudden pain or emotional hurt.
Analysis
The word "sting" is a simplex word derived from Old English "stingan". It cannot be meaningfully segmented into smaller morphemes within Modern English spelling.