ASL STEM

Definition

1. (also penetrate into something) to find a way into it; to enter it, especially with difficulty. 2. to gain access into and influence within (a country, organization, market, etc) for political, financial, etc purposes. 3. to find a way through something; to pierce or permeate penetrate enemy lines penetrated the silence. 4. intransitive to be understood The news didn’t penetrate at first. 5. to see through (a disguise). 6. to fathom, solve, or understand (a mystery).

Source: Chambers 21st Century Dictionary. London: Chambers Harrap, 2001. Credo Reference. Web. 04 September 2012.