>Pique \PEEK\ (verb)

Yes, it sounds just like “peak” and “peek” but has a very different meaning.

MSWORD’s definition: aimlessly passing from one thing to another, random
M-W’s Word Central gives two definitions of pique:
1 : to arouse anger or resentment in : irritate; especially : to offend by treating with disrespect
2 : excite, arouse

I don’t know that I’ve ever used the word pique in conversation as pertains to definition #1. I see it written and understand it’s meaning, but never really stopped to think about the different usages. Here’s examples using definition #1:

A fit of pique came over her when the name calling began.
John’s jibes finally piqued Tom to the point that he struck the first blow.

The more common usage, IMO, is #2. We’ve probably all used this meaning thus:

Now you’ve piqued my curiosity!

And with that, my piqued interest is satisfied. 🙂