penetrate

//ˈpɛnɪˌtreɪt//
B2Frequency Level 10Neutral
Visual representation of penetrate

Verb

penetrateInfinitive
penetratePresent tense
penetratedPast tense
penetratedPast participle
penetratingPresent participle
penetratesThird-person singular
1

To pass into or through something, especially by force or with difficulty.

The bullet penetrated the thick wall.

2

To succeed in understanding or gaining insight into something complex or mysterious.

It took years to penetrate the mystery of the ancient text.

3

To spread through or be absorbed by something.

The cold air penetrated through the thin walls of the cabin.

4

To succeed in entering or joining an organization or group, especially secretly.

The spy managed to penetrate the enemy organization.