pique \pique\, v. t. imp.  p. p. piqued; p. pr.  vb. n.
   piquing. f. piquer. see pike.
   1. to wound the pride of; to sting; to nettle; to irritate;
      to fret; to offend; to excite to anger.
      1913 webster

            pique her, and soothe in turn.        --byron.
      1913 webster

   2. to excite to action by causing resentment or jealousy; to
      stimulate; to prick; as, to pique ambition, or curiosity.
      --prior.
      1913 webster

   3. to pride or value; -- used reflexively.
      1913 webster

            men . . . pique themselves upon their skill.
                                                  --locke.
      1913 webster

   syn: to offend; displease; irritate; provoke; fret; nettle;
        sting; goad; stimulate.
        1913 webster
see also:
piqued piquing pike