PRICKLY Synonyms: 164 Similar and Opposite Words

prickly

adjective

ˈpri-k(ə-)lē

Definition of prickly next

as in irritating

causing an unpleasant tingling sensation she tried to ignore the feel of the prickly grass against her skin

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in irritable

easily irritated or annoyed she dreaded having to deal with her prickly boss

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in thorny

having leaves or branches which are likely to cause a scratch waded carefully through the prickly bushes

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as in difficult

requiring exceptional skill or caution in performance or handling a prickly issue that will outrage at least one special interest if not handled delicately

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of prickly Lurking in the forest is Jerry (David Wilmot), a vagabond living in his van, whose animosity with Fergal (Michael Patric), the inn owner’s prickly adult son, will play a role in how the days ahead will go haywire. —

Carlos Aguilar, Variety, 15 Mar. 2026 Earlier in the awards cycle, some pundits wondered if Byrne’s prickly performance as the struggling caretaker of an ill child—prone to workplace crashouts during the day and evenings spent mainlining weed and wine after putting her daughter to bed—would even get nominated. —

Savannah Walsh, Vanity Fair, 13 Mar. 2026 Early hours may feel prickly, as a tense Moon-Sun square pits enthusiastic action against sensitive emotions. —

Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 11 Mar. 2026 Best known for its brilliant purple flowerhead and prickly parts, native thistle is a major source of food for pollinators. —

Carl R. Gold, Baltimore Sun, 7 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for prickly

Recent Examples of Synonyms for prickly

Adjective

Here's where things get a bit irritating.

— Justin Pot, PC Magazine, 13 Mar. 2026
Rather than focusing on clarity with harsh actives, a key component to the glass skin trend is using gentle, non-irritating ingredients that take your skin to a healthier state.

— Christa Joanna Lee, InStyle, 3 Mar. 2026