prickly
adj. B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈpɹɪkɫi// UK //pɹˈɪkli// prick·ly
adj. covered with sharp points that can hurt you. It also describes a person who gets angry or annoyed very easily.
adj. covered with small, sharp thorns or spines; figuratively describes a person who is easily offended or difficult to deal with due to a defensive temperament.
The cactus is very prickly, so do not touch it.
He has a prickly personality and often takes offense at even the most minor suggestions from his colleagues.
The negotiator's prickly demeanor made it difficult for the two parties to find common ground, as he interpreted every compromise as a personal slight.
From prickle + -y.
Usage
Can be used literally for physical textures or figuratively for social interactions; often follows linking verbs like 'be', 'become', or 'seem'.