spiky

[ spahy-kee ]

adjective

, spik·i·er, spik·i·est.

1. having a spike or spikes. spike.
2. having the form of a spike; spikelike.
3. acid or peevish in temper or mood; prickly.

ˈspiky

/ ˈspaɪkɪ /

adjective

1. resembling a spike
2. having a spike or spikes
3. informal.
   ill-tempered
4. characterized by violent or aggressive methods

   spiky protestors

Derived Forms

• ˈspikiness, noun
• ˈspikily, adverb

Other Words From

• spiki·ly adverb
• spiki·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of spiky¹

First recorded in 1570–80; spike ¹ + -y ¹

Example Sentences

Instead, “Stickerbush Symphony,” with its strangely melancholic New Age groove, accompanies a level in which the player navigates a fantastically cruel maze of spiky vines.

From New York Times

"You think it's OK to degrade someone/ Just because they're true to themselves?" she protests over a spiky rock riff.

From BBC

Smith was not like in life, although she was described as "spiky." according to those who worked with her, she admitted to being nervous before each take, which explains her devotion to precise delivery.

From Salon

"Maybe that's why I'm quite good at playing spiky elderly ladies."

From BBC

Leith completed the look with bright red lipstick, short spiky hair and black eye makeup.

From BBC