as in headache
something that is a source of irritation
your constant questions are a thorn in my side
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Recent Examples of thorn
Mariners star outfielder Randy Arozarena continued to be a thorn in the Royals’ side, hitting his fourth home run of the series as KC fell 3-2.
—
Kansas City Star, 3 July 2025
Another thorn in Republicans’ efforts to pass the legislation has been blue-state House Republicans, who have urged for a higher SALT deduction cap.
—Caroline Vakil, The Hill, 27 June 2025
Arguably the most beloved star on Raw, Zayn was finally able to overcome the man who’s been a thorn in his side since WrestleMania.
—Blake Oestriecher, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2025
Massie has repeatedly broken with Trump over spending and been a thorn in the side of GOP leaders.
—Jonathan Easley, The Hill, 22 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for thorn
Kansas City Star, 3 July 2025
Another thorn in Republicans’ efforts to pass the legislation has been blue-state House Republicans, who have urged for a higher SALT deduction cap.
—Caroline Vakil, The Hill, 27 June 2025
Arguably the most beloved star on Raw, Zayn was finally able to overcome the man who’s been a thorn in his side since WrestleMania.
—Blake Oestriecher, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2025
Massie has repeatedly broken with Trump over spending and been a thorn in the side of GOP leaders.
—Jonathan Easley, The Hill, 22 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for thorn
Recent Examples of Synonyms for thorn
Noun
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Residents report constant running noses, headaches and sore throats.—
Laura Paddison,
CNN Money,
15 Aug. 2025
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While the flu shot can cause redness and soreness at the injection site, as well as fever, muscle aches, headache and fatigue, FluMist can cause flu-like symptoms, including runny nose, congestion, sore throat, cough, fever, and muscle aches.—
Alice Park,
Time,
15 Aug. 2025
Noun
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Weaver, the California waterfowl coordinator, said others were likely brought in the past few years to chase away Canada geese that have increasingly become a nuisance at parks and golf courses.—
CalMatters,
Mercury News,
14 Aug. 2025
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The presence of drones has caused alarm in communities—and the buzzing noise has sometimes become a nuisance.—
Jessica Mathews,
Fortune,
6 Aug. 2025
Noun
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Liquid irritants, including chemicals, can also cause sharp pain in your eye.—
Anna Giorgi,
Verywell Health,
1 Aug. 2025
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As a result, your scalp will come in contact with less irritants, which can help make wearing braids much more comfortable (and longer-lasting).—
Essence,
Essence,
16 July 2025
Noun
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Trump in recent weeks has expressed frustration with Russia as the war continues, and Friday's meeting could have key implication for peace talks as well as Russia-U.S. relations.—
Andrew Stanton,
MSNBC Newsweek,
15 Aug. 2025
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Trump's frustration with Putin appeared to be building as Moscow expanded its ground and long-range strike operations in recent months.—
David Brennan,
ABC News,
15 Aug. 2025
Noun
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The key lies in the preparation: Season generously: Seasoning the breasts generously, whether with a dry rub, marinade, or brine, can impart deep flavor into the meat while also tenderizing it before cooking.—
Katie Rosenhouse,
Southern Living,
3 Aug. 2025
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The boneless chicken breast is a standout, juicy with a rub.—
Bud Kennedy,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
22 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Thorn.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/thorn. Accessed 26 Aug. 2025.
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