prickly

prick·ly

adjective \ˈpri-k(ə-)lē\

prick·li·erprick·li·est

Definition of PRICKLY

1

: full of or covered with prickles; especially : distinguished from related kinds by the presence of prickles

2

: marked by prickling : stinging <a prickly sensation>

3

a : troublesome, vexatious <prickly issues>

b : easily irritated <had a prickly disposition>

— prick·li·ness noun

Examples of PRICKLY

1. The plant's leaves are prickly.
2. <she tried to ignore the feel of the prickly grass against her skin>

First Known Use of PRICKLY

1578

Other Seed Plant Terms

aubergine, box, bramble, briar, composite, perpetual, pulse, trefoil

Rhymes with PRICKLY

quickly, sickly, slickly, thickly