(slang, derogatory, dated) An operative of the Pinkerton National Detective Agency.

A surname.

(intransitive) To become pink in color, to redden. / (transitive) To turn (something) pink. / (transitive) To turn (a topaz or other gemstone) pink by the application of heat.

Any of various flowers in the genus Dianthus, sometimes called carnations. / (dated) A perfect example; excellence, perfection; the embodiment of some quality.

(obsolete) A small hole or puncture made by a sharp, slender instrument such as a rapier, poniard or dagger, or (by extension) a bullet; a stab.

(obsolete) To wink; to blink.

(regional) The common minnow, Phoxinus phoxinus. / (regional) A young Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar, before it becomes a smolt; a parr.

Of a motor car, to emit a high "pinking" noise, usually as a result of ill-set ignition timing for the fuel used (in a spark ignition engine).

(now obsolete) A narrow boat.

To decorate a piece of clothing or fabric by adding holes or by scalloping the fringe. / To prick with a sword. / To wound by irony, criticism, or ridicule.