spike
n. countablen. a sudden, sharp increase in the amount or price of something. It can also mean a long, thin piece of metal with a sharp point.
n. a sharp, sudden increase in a quantity or value; alternatively, a thin, pointed piece of metal or wood. Often used in economic contexts to describe price volatility.
There was a sudden spike in oil prices this morning.
The hospital prepared for a spike in admissions during the flu season.
Economists noted a significant spike in consumer spending following the tax cuts, though the growth proved to be temporary as inflation began to rise.
From spike, variously from having spiky hair, being thin (like a railroad spike), etc.
From spike, perhaps a nickname for a tall, thin person.
Commonly used with the preposition 'in' when referring to data or prices.