penetrate
pen-e-trate · verb
Definitions
verb
- 1.
To pass into or through something, especially by force.
- 2.
To gain access to or enter an organization, market, or territory.
- 3.
To understand or gain insight into something complex.
- 4.
To spread through and be perceived in an area.
Phrases & expressions
- •penetrate the market — to successfully enter and establish presence in a market
- •penetrating gaze — a look that seems to see through someone
Related words
Etymology
From Latin penetrare ("to enter, pierce"), from penitus ("inner, interior"), related to penus ("innermost part of a building").