thorn

noun

ˈthȯrn How to pronounce thorn (audio)
Definition of thornnext
as in headache
something that is a source of irritation your constant questions are a thorn in my side

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 thorn That would be, of course, the dozen attorneys general led by California’s Rob Bonta, whose antitrust lawsuit last month seeking to block the merger has been a thorn in Ellison’s side. — Steven Zeitchik, HollywoodReporter, 19 Aug. 2026 But the Vulcan program has been a thorn in ULA’s plans to ramp up launches. — Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 Aug. 2026 Their kickers’ health and performance for years have been one of the thorns in the team’s side. — Pat Leonard, New York Daily News, 13 Aug. 2026 With hill country roots and dangerous charm, Zak has been raised since birth to carry on the Farley racing dynasty, a thorn in the Whitlock family’s side. — Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 12 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for thorn
Recent Examples of Synonyms for thorn
  1. headache
  2. nuisance
  3. irritant
  4. frustration
  5. rub
Noun
  • Tibbetts says the fires have already created plenty of logistics headaches.
    — Anya Kamenetz, Curbed, 28 Aug. 2026
  • Caused by parasites spread via Anopheles mosquitoes, malaria can cause symptoms including nausea, headache and intense waves of fever and chills.
    — CBS News, CBS News, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of headache
Noun
  • Earlier in August, A New Mexico judge ordered Meta to contribute $567 million to an abatement fund as part of a public nuisance case centering on child-safety allegations.
    — Jonathan Vanian, CNBC, 26 Aug. 2026
  • In March, a New Mexico jury and judge fined Meta over $900 million after the state’s attorney general argued that its platforms created a public nuisance.
    — Steve Kopack, NBC news, 26 Aug. 2026
Definition of nuisance
Noun
  • Carney also said that Washington viewed protections for French and Canadian culture — considered fundamental rights in Canada — as irritants to trade.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 26 Aug. 2026
  • Police also say there is no evidence an MPD officer on scene deployed any irritant.
    — WCCO Staff, CBS News, 25 Aug. 2026
Definition of irritant
Noun
  • Acceptance moves you out of frustration and into a place of proactivity.
    — R. Eric Thomas, Chicago Tribune, 29 Aug. 2026
  • Troops in this area have sustained heavy casualties in battles with the regional Islamic State affiliate, and analysts and security sources say frustration with the government is mounting within frontline units.
    — Reuters, NBC news, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of frustration
Noun
  • An intoxicating spice rub — salt, pepper, cumin, garlic and herbs — permeates everything, from the bronze skin shielding succulent white meat to the livery underside.
    — Warren Rojas, Washington Post, 19 Aug. 2026
  • But on a visit the other day, the pork ribs and — surprisingly — the boneless chicken breast arrived with a good, spicy rub.
    — Bud Kennedy, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 Aug. 2026
Definition of rub

Browse Nearby Words

thoraxes
thorn
thorniness
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Thorn.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/thorn. Accessed 31 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on thorn

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about thorn

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