Synonyms of thorns

thorns

noun

plural of thorn

as in headaches

something that is a source of irritation

your constant questions are a thorn in my side

Synonyms & Similar Words

• headaches
• frustrations
• nuisances
• irritants
• worries
• inconveniences
• annoyances
• problems
• ruffles
• pests
• rubs
• vexations
• exasperations
• aggravations
• hair shirts
• insults
• trials
• bugbears
• peeves
• burdens
• menaces
• pinpricks
• irks
• curses
• botherations
• discomforts
• anxieties
• troubles
• hassles
• bothers
• sores
• affronts
• aggros
• plagues
• millstones
• predicaments
• tribulations
• fleabites
• crosses
• upsets
• annoyers
• offenders
• afflictions
• disturbers
• albatross
• mischiefs
• plights
• offenses
• pet peeves
• harassers
• hang-ups
• pandora's boxes

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• pleasures
• joys
• delights

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of thorns

Cue an enthralling chase sequence, doubling back through those higgledy-piggledy Portland streetscapes, toward the woods — the impenetrable thickets and thorns of which magically part in her presence. — Guy Lodge, Variety, 11 Oct. 2026

Grace Carroll gives a poignant performance as the Nightingale—borne aloft with arched back and trembling, outstretched hands by other dancers, who play thorns that pierce her breast—and Adam Elmes makes a seductively sinister Dorian Gray. — Hannah Aizenman, New Yorker, 10 Oct. 2026

Besides a necklace of thorns, which draws small drops of blood, Kahlo appears to be more focused on the relief of healing. — Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 8 Sep. 2026

Roses are considered non-toxic, though thorns can cause injuries and floral preservatives may still pose a risk. — Lauren Paige Richeson, USA Today, 2 Sep. 2026

Keep in mind that rose stems are often armed with sharp prickles, not thorns. — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 25 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

In many species, the pronotum extends over the body to form elaborate shapes that resemble thorns, buds, or other plant structures, providing excellent camouflage. — Markis Hill, Kansas City Star, 9 Aug. 2026

These networks used to buffer against isolation and economic displacement—the thorns of modern life that make partnership more valuable yet love more difficult to find. — Faith Hill, The Atlantic, 3 Aug. 2026