Though it have the pique, and long, 'Tis still for something in the
wrong.
Hudibras.
3. (Card Playing) In piquet, the right of the elder hand to count
thirty in hand, or to play before the adversary counts one.
Syn. -- Displeasure; irritation; grudge; spite. Pique, Spite, Grudge.
Pique denotes a quick and often transient sense of resentment for some
supposed neglect or injury, but it is not marked by malevolence. Spite
is a stronger term, denoting settled ill will or malice, with a desire
to injure, as the result of extreme irritation. Grudge goes still
further, denoting cherished and secret enmity, with an unforgiving
spirit. A pique is usually of recent date; a grudge is that which has
long subsisted; spite implies a disposition to cross or vex others.
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.
Pique her, and soothe in turn.
Byron.
2. To excite to action by causing resentment or jealousy; to stimulate;
to prick; as, to pique ambition, or curiosity. Prior.