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

Today, Megan and STAT contributor Edward Chen bring us a follow-up on the thorny ethical questions about developing the procedure. — Theresa Gaffney, STAT, 3 Nov. 2026

But some political experts say the issue may not prove as thorny for California as issues like housing or wildfires. — Jenny Jarvie follow, Los Angeles Times, 3 Nov. 2026

Inspired by imagery in the folkloric tome Grimms’ Fairy Tales, the lights mimic thorny bushes like blackthorn and rose, both used in witchcraft. — Francesca Perry, Vogue, 29 Oct. 2026

But their 20-3 loss to the Seahawks (4-3) was so thorough, unsightly and disillusioning as to render the 5-0 run-up to it entirely suspect — especially considering the Chiefs’ thorny schedule ahead. — Kansas City Star, 26 Oct. 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