Main Entry: spiny

Pronunciation: \ˈspī-nē\

Function: adjective

Inflected Form(s): spin·i·er; spin·i·est

Date: 1586

1 : abounding with difficulties, obstacles, or annoyances : thorny <spiny problems>
2 : covered or armed with spines; broadly : bearing spines, prickles, or thorns
3 : slender and pointed like a spine

— spin·i·ness noun