spiny
UK: ˈspaɪni | US: ˈspaɪni
adj. covered with or having spines; prickly
adj. resembling a spine in shape or structure
adj. (figuratively) difficult or thorny in nature
spiny = spin<spike/thorn> + y<adjective suffix>
- spin (from Old English spīn, meaning "thorn" or "sharp projection")
- y (a common English suffix forming adjectives, indicating "characterized by" or "full of")
Etymology Origin:
The word spiny traces back to Old English spīn, referring to sharp, pointed structures like thorns or spines. Over time, the suffix -y was added to create an adjective describing objects or surfaces covered with such projections. The term evolved to describe both literal prickliness (e.g., plants, animals) and figurative challenges (e.g., "a spiny problem").
The cactus has a spiny surface to deter herbivores.
The spiny lobster uses its antennae for defense.
She carefully avoided the spiny branches of the rose bush.
The debate took a spiny turn as tensions rose.
Scientists study spiny fish to understand their adaptive traits.