English Reference

Word

spiky

US/ˈspaɪki/

UK/spˈaɪki/

Definition

adj. having sharp points or edges that can hurt you. It can also describe someone who is rude or has a sharp tongue.

adj. having sharp, pointed projections or edges; metaphorically describes a person or style that is sharp, aggressive, or difficult to approach.

Examples

“The cactus has spiky leaves to protect itself.”

“The hedge is covered in spiky thorns that make it impossible to climb over.”

“The artist's latest collection features spiky, angular designs that contrast sharply with the soft, flowing lines of her previous work.”

Examples

simple

“The cactus has spiky leaves to protect itself.”

contextual

“The hedge is covered in spiky thorns that make it impossible to climb over.”

complex

“The artist's latest collection features spiky, angular designs that contrast sharply with the soft, flowing lines of her previous work.”

Word family

spikeNounspikyAdjective

Domain

Botany

This entry

Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency
Occasional
Updated

Scan code

englishreference.com/q/spiky

English Reference