spiky
UK: ˈspaɪki | US: ˈspaɪki
adj. having sharp points or spikes
adj. (of hair or foliage) stiff and pointed
adj. (figuratively) irritable or easily annoyed
The word "spiky" derives from "spike" (Old English spīc, meaning "sharp point" or "nail"), combined with the adjectival suffix "-y," which indicates "having the quality of." The root "spike" traces back to Proto-Germanic spīkaz, related to piercing or pointed objects. Over time, "spiky" evolved to describe both literal sharpness (e.g., spiky plants) and figurative traits (e.g., a spiky personality).
The cactus has spiky thorns to protect itself.
She styled her hair in a spiky punk look.
His spiky remarks made the conversation tense.
The hedgehog’s spiky back deters predators.
The artist used spiky lines to create a dynamic effect.