1. the quality of having a sharp, strong taste or smell
2. the quality of being sharp or biting in speech or manner

Examples

• The pungency of the garlic overwhelmed the other flavors in the dish.
• She wrinkled her nose at the pungency of the blue cheese.
• The pungency of his criticism left everyone uncomfortable.
• The onions’ pungency brought tears to her eyes.
• His writing was known for its wit and pungency.
• The pungency of the spices made the curry almost unbearable.