Penetration
/ˌpɛnɪˈtreɪʃən/
Definitions
3 meaningsThe act of entering or forcing a way into or through something.
/ˌpɛnɪˈtreɪʃən/
The action of making a way through or into something.
The penetration of the missile into the bunker was devastating.
💡 Simply: Imagine a needle going through a piece of fabric. Penetration is like that, but it can be used in many ways, like a company entering a new market or a missile going through a shield.
👶 For kids: It means going into something, like when you put your finger in Play-Doh!
More Examples
The market penetration strategy focused on offering discounts to attract customers.
The penetration of the sun's rays warmed the room.
How It's Used
"The penetration of light through the translucent material."
"The enemy's air force achieved significant penetration of our defenses."
"The company is focused on market penetration to increase sales."
Insight or understanding; the ability to grasp or understand something deeply.
/ˌpɛnɪˈtreɪʃən/
The ability to understand a difficult subject.
Her keen penetration into the complexities of the issue was impressive.
💡 Simply: It's when someone really *gets* something. Like, they see all the details and understand it better than anyone else. It's like having a super smart mind that can cut through the tough parts.
👶 For kids: It means understanding something really well, like figuring out a tricky puzzle!
More Examples
The lawyer demonstrated a remarkable penetration of the law.
The journalist's penetration of the political situation was insightful.
How It's Used
"His psychological analysis showed great penetration."
"The author's penetration into the character's mind was remarkable."
Sexual intercourse.
/ˌpɛnɪˈtreɪʃən/
She explained the process of penetration to the patient.
💡 Simply: It's the physical act of sex.
👶 For kids: This definition is not applicable to a child's understanding.
More Examples
The health class covered topics related to sexual penetration.
How It's Used
"The doctor explained the risks associated with sexual penetration."
"This lesson includes discussion of sexual penetration."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
market penetration
The extent to which a product is sold or used by customers in a particular market.
"The company is aiming to increase its market penetration in the Asian market."
penetration testing
A method of evaluating the security of a computer system or network by simulating an attack from a malicious source.
"We conducted a penetration test to identify vulnerabilities in our system."
From Latin *penetratio*, from *penetrare* meaning 'to enter, pierce, or go into'. The word's usage evolved from literal physical entry to more abstract concepts of understanding and influence.
The word's use in a military context, describing the breach of defenses, is well-documented from the late 19th century, reflecting advancements in warfare.
Memory tip
Think of a sharp object piercing something solid – that's penetration.
Word Origin
"to enter, pierce"