spiky

[ spahy-kee ]

adjective

, spik·i·er, spik·i·est.

1. having a spike or spikes. spike.
2. having the form of a spike; spikelike.
3. acid or peevish in temper or mood; prickly.

ˈspiky

/ ˈspaɪkɪ /

adjective

1. resembling a spike
2. having a spike or spikes
3. informal.
   ill-tempered
4. characterized by violent or aggressive methods

   spiky protestors

Derived Forms

• ˈspikiness, noun
• ˈspikily, adverb

Other Words From

• spiki·ly adverb
• spiki·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of spiky¹

First recorded in 1570–80; spike ¹ + -y ¹

Example Sentences

The furry limb, spiky-leaf trees are native to the area, and it is currently illegal to remove them since they are a candidate for protection under the California Endangered Species Act.

From Washington Post

The block that followed was much larger, the size of a small brick, its surfaces angled together into a sharp point, like a microcosm of the spiky mountains all around us.

From Outside Online

She wore a blue T-shirt with the words “Don’t Try Me,” matching her spiky blue bob.

From ProPublica

He sampled the spiky “Ether” for the boom-bap of Run the Jewels’ “The Ground Below,” his way of sharing the music with a new generation of listeners.

From Washington Post

Developed by Sayeed Khan, who was a grandson of indentured laborers, the brand’s spice mix is a household staple, adored for its nuanced and spiky flavor.

From Washington Post