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

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

From BBC

The morning drive was quiet and scenic through hills dotted with creosote bushes, spiky cacti and spindly ocotillo plants leading up to Safford, the hometown of a good friend who got the hell out of there.

From Los Angeles Times

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

"It's true I don't tolerate fools, but then they don't tolerate me, so I am spiky," she once said.

From BBC