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penetrate

/ˈpɛnɪtɹeɪt/verb

To pass into or through something; to pierce its surface and reach the inside.

Example sentences

  • The rain was so heavy it penetrated my jacket within minutes.
  • Sunlight barely penetrates the dense forest canopy.

Business writing has 'market penetration'; a penetrating question or gaze cuts through surface politeness.

Featured as word of the day on January 19, 2026.

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