thorny

adjective

ˈthȯr-nē 

thornier; thorniest

1

: full of thorns

2

: full of difficulties or controversial points : ticklish

a thorny problem

thorniness noun

Synonyms of thorny

• jagged
• prickly
• scratchy
• brambly

Examples of thorny in a Sentence

stay out of the thorny brambles unless you want a ton of scratches

Recent Examples on the Web

From the thorny starting point of an Apache raid on a Western homestead, Costner weaves a complex, multi-perspective tale that wrestles with the romance and realities of American colonialism and mythmaking. — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 3 July 2026

But then when the setting is Silicon Valley, what about dealing with thorny office politics and the particularities of an immigrant-heavy workforce? — Randy McMullen, Mercury News, 2 July 2026

But Claire Messud’s history comes to mind for its interest in thorny inheritance. — Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 2 July 2026

For Americans from Iran, supporting the Iranian national team has been a thorny issue. — Jesus Jiménez, New York Times, 30 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for thorny

• corny
• horny

Kids Definition

thorny

adjective

ˈthȯr-nē 

thornier; thorniest

1

: full of or covered with thorns

thorny rose bushes

2

: full of difficulties

a thorny problem

thorniness noun