peak/peek/pique

peak (pēk)

Noun

• A tapering, projecting point; a pointed extremity: the peak of a cap; the peak of a roof.
• The pointed summit of a mountain.
• The point of greatest development, value, or intensity: a novel written at the peak of the writer's career.
• Physics. The highest value attained by a varying quantity: a peak in current.

Verb _{^{peaked, peaking, peaks.}}

Verb. Transitive

• To bring to a maximum of development, value, or intensity.

Verb. Intransitive

• To be formed into a peak or peaks: Beat the egg whites until they peak.
• To achieve a maximum of development, value, or intensity: Sales tend to peak just before the holidays.

Adjective

• Approaching or constituting the maximum: working at peak efficiency.

peek (pēk)

Verb. Intransitive _{^{peeked, peeking, peeks.}}

• To glance quickly.
• To look or peer furtively, as from a place of concealment.
• To be only partially visible, as if peering or emerging from hiding.

Noun

• A brief or furtive look.

pique (pēk)

Noun

• A state of vexation caused by a perceived slight or indignity; a feeling of wounded pride.

Verb. Transitive _{^{piqued, piquing, piques.}}

• To cause to feel resentment or indignation.
• To provoke; arouse: The portrait piqued her curiosity.
• To pride (oneself): He piqued himself on his stylish attire.