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
Also known as seaberry, Fried says this plant is notable for its resistance to deer because of its sharp thorns and tree-like height.
—
Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 14 Apr. 2026
Both the Kremlin and White House had valued Eurosceptic Orbán as a kindred spirit ideologically and a thorn in the side of the EU.
—Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 13 Apr. 2026
Orbán was something of a thorn in the European establishment’s side, taking stances supportive of Russia and facing widespread accusations of authoritarianism.
—Colin Campbell, semafor.com, 13 Apr. 2026
With two more games to go in this homestand, fans want to see something change, especially before the Mets travel to Los Angeles to visit the two-time defending Los Angeles Dodgers, the team that has been a perennial thorn in their side over the last five years.
—Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 11 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for thorn
Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 14 Apr. 2026
Both the Kremlin and White House had valued Eurosceptic Orbán as a kindred spirit ideologically and a thorn in the side of the EU.
—Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 13 Apr. 2026
Orbán was something of a thorn in the European establishment’s side, taking stances supportive of Russia and facing widespread accusations of authoritarianism.
—Colin Campbell, semafor.com, 13 Apr. 2026
With two more games to go in this homestand, fans want to see something change, especially before the Mets travel to Los Angeles to visit the two-time defending Los Angeles Dodgers, the team that has been a perennial thorn in their side over the last five years.
—Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 11 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for thorn
Recent Examples of Synonyms for thorn
Noun
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But after developing a headache that lasted for several months, a friend convinced her to visit the emergency room.—
Brad Quick,
CNBC,
20 Apr. 2026
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This can create headaches for physicians and other providers.—
Noam N. Levey,
Hartford Courant,
20 Apr. 2026
Noun
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If data centers eventually are included, for example, neighbors could take a hit due to impacts on electricity costs, water access, industrial noise and other nuisances that can come into play when a megaproject moves in next door.—
David Greising,
Chicago Tribune,
24 Apr. 2026
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Not all ants are bad for the garden—some help with soil health and pest control—but fire ants and carpenter ants can be serious nuisances or hazards.—
Mary Marlowe Leverette,
Southern Living,
23 Apr. 2026
Noun
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Then the ball was tipped, and Hyland assumed his role as an irritant of Denver’s corner shooters.—
Bennett Durando,
Denver Post,
25 Apr. 2026
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An open window, your shoes, or even your clothing could bring in pollen or other outdoor irritants.—
Angie Hicks,
Boston Herald,
24 Apr. 2026
Noun
-
Precision now saves you from rework and frustration later.—
Tarot.com,
Hartford Courant,
21 Apr. 2026
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Towns raised his hands — calling for the ball — then dropped them in frustration.—
Kristian Winfield,
New York Daily News,
21 Apr. 2026
Noun
-
Upgrade your rubs, soups, and pasta with just a sprinkle.—
Katlyn Moncada,
Better Homes & Gardens,
17 Apr. 2026
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So whether its a belly rub, a favorite snack, or just a few extra minutes together, National Pet Day is as good as a reason as any to celebrate the ones who make our lives, and our homes, better.—
Kendall Malinchock,
USA Today,
11 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Thorn.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/thorn. Accessed 26 Apr. 2026.
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