spikes
n. countable B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈspaɪks// UK //spˈaɪks// spikes
n. sharp, thin points made of metal or wood. You also use this word to describe sudden, sharp increases in a graph or a price.
n. thin, pointed objects or projections; also refers to sudden, sharp increases in a measured value or quantity.
The runner wore shoes with metal spikes for better grip.
The electricity company warned customers about potential spikes in energy prices during the winter months.
The data revealed several unexpected spikes in website traffic, which the engineering team eventually traced back to a viral social media post in a different time zone.
Usage
Often used in the plural when referring to footwear or multiple sharp points; used metaphorically in singular or plural for statistical surges.