Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

prickly

[prik-lee] / ˈprɪk li /




Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Cannes is meant to launch ambitious, prickly works by grandmasters and next-generation talents.

From Los Angeles Times • May 22, 2026

If we’re lucky, this week’s summit in Beijing won’t produce any shocking headlines on Iran, Taiwan, or any of the other prickly issues that divide the U.S. and China.

From Barron's • May 14, 2026

Now, talking about the prickly subject at the film’s heart will be that much easier.

From Salon • Apr. 9, 2026

As a result, suit tampering has long been a prickly issue…

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 7, 2026

I put out my hand to feel the dark mass before me: I discriminated the rough stones of a low wall—above it, something like palisades, and within, a high and prickly hedge.

From "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë




Vocabulary lists containing prickly


Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "prickly" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com