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Spiky Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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spiky

[ˈspaɪki ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

hairstyle

Having sharp points or thorns; shaped like a spike.

Synonyms

pointed, prickly, sharp.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
spiky

Use this when describing something that has stiff, pointed projections, often used for hair or certain plants.

  • He styled his hair in a spiky manner.
  • The cactus had spiky needles.
pointed

Best used for something that has a tapered end, useful for describing geometric shapes, tools, or certain remarks.

  • The pencil has a pointed tip.
  • Her pointed comment made everyone uncomfortable.
sharp

This word can describe something with an edge or point capable of cutting, or a sudden, keen sensation, or an intelligent mind.

  • The knife is very sharp.
  • She felt a sharp pain in her leg.
  • He has a sharp mind.
prickly

Describes something covered with or having small sharp points, often used for plants or describing someone's difficult personality (negative connotation).

  • The bush had prickly thorns.
  • He can be quite prickly when he's stressed.

Examples of usage

  • She styled her hair into a spiky pixie cut.
  • The cactus has spiky needles for protection.
Context #2 | Adjective

personality

Easily irritated or annoyed; having a prickly attitude.

Synonyms

irritable, testy, touchy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
spiky

This word can describe something or someone that is literally or metaphorically sharp and pointed. It can also refer to hairstyles with pointed tips.

  • The plant has spiky leaves that can hurt if you touch them.
  • He always styles his hair in a spiky way.
irritable

Use this to describe someone who is easily annoyed or angered, often due to minor triggers. This word often has a negative connotation.

  • She becomes irritable when she doesn't get enough sleep.
  • The constant noise made him very irritable.
testy

Use this for someone who tends to become impatient or annoyed quickly. It’s usually used to describe a temporary state and often suggests irritability without being overly harsh.

  • After a long day at work, he was feeling pretty testy.
  • The teacher was testy because the students were not listening.
touchy

This word is used to describe someone who is overly sensitive and easily upset by particular topics or issues. It can also imply a sense of unpredictability in reaction.

  • He's touchy about criticism and takes everything personally.
  • That is a touchy subject for her, so try not to bring it up.

Examples of usage

  • His spiky personality often led to conflicts with others.
  • She was known for her spiky responses when criticized.
Context #3 | Noun

object

A small, pointed object or projection.

Synonyms

point, prickle, thorn.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
spiky

Used to describe something that is covered with or has many sharp points. Often used for objects or even hairstyles.

  • The spiky leaves of the cactus made it difficult to handle.
  • He gelled his hair into a spiky style for the party.
point

Refers to a specific sharp end of an object or a detailed idea/argument in discussions.

  • The point of the pencil broke off.
  • She made a good point during the debate.
prickle

Describes a small, sharp point that can cause a slight pain or discomfort, often found on plants or animals.

  • I felt a prickle when I touched the rose stem.
  • The prickle of the hedgehog's quills is a natural defense.
thorn

Specifically refers to a sharp projection on a plant, commonly associated with roses and other flora. Often metaphorical to describe something troublesome.

  • The thorn of the rose bush scratched her arm.
  • He can be a thorn in my side, always causing problems.

Examples of usage

  • He stepped on a spiky rock while hiking.
  • The hedgehog used its spiky quills for defense.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Nature

  • Certain plants, like cacti and thistles, have evolved spikes as a defense against animals that might eat them.
  • In the animal kingdom, porcupines use their spiky quills to protect themselves from predators.
  • Some sea creatures, like sea urchins, have spikes to help them stay safe from other animals.

Fashion

  • Spiky hairstyles, such as mohawks, became popular in punk culture, symbolizing rebellion and individuality.
  • Fashion accessories, like spiked bracelets or shoes, have been used to convey an edgy style statement.
  • In the world of footwear, spiked heels can give height and dramatic flair, though they can also be seen as aggressive.

Pop Culture

  • In animated films and video games, spiky characters often embody wild or chaotic personalities, such as Sonic the Hedgehog.
  • The 'spiky' aesthetic appears in various music genres, particularly in punk rock, highlighting attitude and defiance.
  • Spiky armor is a common design in fantasy games, representing strong and fierce warriors.

Art & Design

  • Artists sometimes use spiky motifs in sculptures to convey tension or conflict.
  • In graphic design, spiky shapes can add a sense of energy and movement to a composition.
  • Architectural designs sometimes feature spiky elements to create dramatic effects, resembling a fortress or castle.

Origin of 'spiky'

The word 'spiky' originated from the Middle English word 'spike', which in turn came from the Old English word 'spīc'. The term has been used to describe sharp points or projections since the 14th century. Over time, 'spiky' has evolved to also refer to personalities or attitudes that are easily irritated or prickly.

See also: spiked, spikes.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,099, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.