Definition of: prick

(prik) v.t.
1. To pierce slightly, as with a sharp point; puncture.
2. To affect with sharp mental pain; sting; spur.
3. To mark, outline, or indicate by or as by punctures.
4. Obs. To urge on with or as with a spur; goad.
5. In farriery: a To drive a nail into the quick of (a horse's hoof), causing lameness. b To nick (a horse's tail).
6. To transplant, as young plants, preparatory to later planting.
—v.i.
7. To have or cause a stinging or piercing sensation.
8. Archaic To ride at full speed; go at a gallop.
—to prick up one's (or its) ears
1. To raise the ears erect.
2. To listen attentively.
—noun
1. The act of pricking; the state or sensation of being pricked.
2. A mental sting or spur: the prick of conscience.
3. That which pricks; a slender, sharp–pointed thing, as a thorn or pointed weapon.
4. A mark made by a sharp, pointed instrument; puncture; dot.
5. The footprint of an animal, as a rabbit or deer.
6. Archaic A goad or spur. [OE prica sharp point]
—prick′er noun