Skewer

STAB

Think of a sharp action that might leave a small wound or hole.

"Skewer" here is used in its figurative sense—it doesn’t just mean a stick for grilling but also implies piercing or attacking sharply. The answer "STAB" fits because it’s a direct synonym for a quick, forceful thrust, like skewering someone with a blade or even words. Think of how "skewer" can describe a cutting remark; "stab" carries that same sharp, abrupt action. The clue plays on the double meaning of the word to lead to a shorter, punchier verb.