Pinch/pɪntʃ/ Definition 1 of 5Pro Tip 1/3Physical Interaction Used when someone lightly hurts another, often playfully or to get attention. She pinched him to stop his snoring. Pro Tip 2/3Not Serious Hurt The pain caused is minor and temporary, not meant to cause real harm. Don't cry, it was just a little pinch! Pro Tip 3/3Metaphorical Use Can express a small degree of emotional hurt or discomfort. His sharp words pinched her heart.