Spiky: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.