pierced

Pierced is the past participle of pierce, meaning penetrated or perforated by a sharp object, resulting in a hole or opening. The term describes surfaces or objects that have been penetrated, including skin, fabric, metal, and other materials. It is used to indicate that something has been perforated or punctured, whether for practical purposes or decoration.

In body modification, piercing refers to creating holes in parts of the body to wear jewelry. Common sites include the ears, nose, lips, tongue, eyebrows, nipples, and navel. Procedures are typically performed by trained professionals using sterile equipment. Aftercare involves keeping the area clean and avoiding irritation or infection, with healing times varying by site—from several weeks for earlobe piercings to many months for cartilage or nipple piercings. Potential risks include infection, allergic reactions to metals, migration, or scarring.

In manufacturing and design, piercing describes the creation of holes or openings in materials such as metal, wood, or fabric. Techniques include punching, drilling, laser cutting, or chemical etching. Perforated materials enable ventilation, filtration, or decorative patterns, and are used in products ranging from architectural screens to automotive components and jewelry.

Historical and cultural notes vary by region, with many cultures adopting piercing for ceremonial, social, or aesthetic reasons. In contemporary practice, regulatory and safety standards emphasize hygiene, informed consent, and the use of appropriate, skin-safe materials to mitigate complications.