sting

To cause sharp emotional pain or to swindle someone financially.

"His harsh words stung her deeply."

A police operation designed to catch criminals by deception.

"The police conducted a successful sting operation."

To cause a sharp, pricking pain, often from an insect or plant.

"A wasp might sting you if you disturb it."

A sharp, pricking wound or pain caused by an insect, plant, or object.

"The bee left a painful sting on her arm."

A feeling of sharp emotional pain or bitterness from an event.

"The sting of his rejection was hard to bear."