spinier; spiniest
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
spininess noun

Examples of spiny in a Sentence

this promises to be a spiny problem to negotiate
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
These spiny mammals are members of the Erinaceidae family and date back approximately 15 million years ago. Allison Futterman, Discover Magazine, 6 Nov. 2024 Generally, deer don’t prefer plants that are fuzzy, highly aromatic, spiny, or spiky. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 2 Nov. 2024 These women are tough and spiny too, given to raucous songs, laughter and the occasional squabble. Dennis Harvey, Variety, 7 Oct. 2024 Many predators have specialized digestive systems that can handle tough or spiny prey, with powerful stomach acids or enzymes that can break down spines or other tough structures. Melissa Cristina Marquez, Forbes, 28 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for spiny 

Word History

First Known Use

1586, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of spiny was in 1586

Dictionary Entries Near spiny

Cite this Entry

“Spiny.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spiny. Accessed 5 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

spiny

adjective
spinier; spiniest
1
: full of difficulties, obstacles, or problems : thorny
2
: having or covered with spines, thorns, or prickles
spininess noun

More from Merriam-Webster on spiny

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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