An onomatopoeic term for a sharp, stinging sensation (like a spicy or tingling feeling) or a crisp, tense atmosphere.
このスープは唐辛子が効いていてピリッと辛い。
This soup has a sharp kick from chili and is pungently spicy.
寒い風に当たって顔がピリッとした。
My face tingled from the cold wind.
会議の冒頭で部長が注意を促すと、場がピリッと引き締まった。
When the manager warned everyone at the start of the meeting, the atmosphere became tense and focused.