spike
UK: spaɪk | US: spaɪk
n. a sharp-pointed object or projection
n. a sudden sharp increase in something (e.g., price, temperature)
vt. to pierce or fasten with a sharp object
vt. to add alcohol or drugs to a drink surreptitiously
The word "spike" traces back to Old Norse "spīkr" (meaning "nail, spike") and Middle Low German "spīker." It originally referred to a sharp, pointed object, often made of metal, used for fastening or piercing. Over time, its meaning expanded metaphorically to describe sudden sharp rises (e.g., in graphs or statistics) and the act of lacing drinks with substances. The silent "e" is a common feature in English spelling but does not carry morphemic weight here.
The fence was topped with iron spikes to prevent intruders.
There was a spike in COVID-19 cases after the holiday.
She spiked the punch with rum at the party.
The runner spiked his shoes for better traction.
A spike in oil prices affected the global economy.