prickly
UK: ˈprɪkli | US: ˈprɪkli
adj. covered with or resembling sharp points; thorny
adj. causing discomfort or irritation; stinging
adj. (of a person) easily annoyed or irritable
The word "prickly" combines "prick," derived from Old English prica (a sharp point or puncture), with the adjectival suffix "-ly." "Prick" originally referred to a small, sharp object or sensation, evolving metaphorically to describe both physical thorniness and figurative irritability. The suffix "-ly" (from Old English -lic) turns nouns into adjectives, giving "prickly" its descriptive quality. The word’s dual meaning—literal sharpness and emotional sensitivity—reflects its Germanic roots and the tendency to anthropomorphize physical traits.
The cactus is covered in prickly spines to deter animals.
She gave a prickly response when asked about her mistake.
The wool sweater felt prickly against his skin.
His prickly demeanor made teamwork difficult.
Avoid touching the prickly bushes along the trail.