thorny

1 of 2

adjective

ˈthȯr-nē 

thornier; thorniest

1

: full of thorns

2

: full of difficulties or controversial points : ticklish

a thorny problem

thorniness noun

thorniness

2 of 2

noun

thorn·​i·​ness

-nēnə̇s, 

-nin-

plural -es

: the quality or state of being thorny

Synonyms of thorny

Adjective

• jagged
• prickly
• scratchy
• brambly

Examples of thorny in a Sentence

Adjective

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

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Ervin for thinking creatively about this thorniest of issues. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 19 July 2026

There’s some wisdom in not having a rape threat hover over ten hours of serialized television, and the shift has opened up some thorny connections between Cady and Anna Bowden, whose pasts continue to intersect in intriguing ways. — Scott Tobias, Vulture, 17 July 2026

But this week, the politics behind them in Indianapolis became thorny. — Marissa Meador, IndyStar, 17 July 2026

The director’s blunt, troubling reflection on Odysseus’ choices elevates the film from mere bravura showmanship to a rich, thorny text about morality, regret, and war. — Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 15 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

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