spiny

/'spaini/

Friendly

Word: Spiny

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition: The word "spiny" describes something that has sharp, pointed parts, like thorns or spines. These parts are often protective, helping the plant or animal defend itself from predators.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "spiny" to describe plants, animals, or objects that have sharp projections.
• It can be used in both literal and figurative contexts.

Examples:

1. Literal: "The cactus is very spiny, so be careful when you touch it."
2. Figurative: "His spiny personality makes it hard for him to make friends."

Advanced Usage:

• In biology, "spiny" can refer to specific adaptations in animals or plants that help them survive in their environments. For example, a spiny fish may have developed spines to deter predators.

Word Variants:

• Spine (noun): The sharp, pointed structure itself.
• Spines (noun, plural): More than one sharp structure.
• Spiny (adjective): The form used to describe something with spines.

Different Meanings:

• "Spiny" can also describe a feeling or atmosphere that is uncomfortable or tense, similar to how one might feel when encountering something sharp or dangerous.

Synonyms:

• Thorny
• Barbed
• Prickly
• Sharp

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While "spiny" does not have specific idioms or phrasal verbs associated with it, you might encounter phrases such as: - "In a prickly situation" meaning being in a difficult or uncomfortable circumstance (related to the idea of sharpness).

Summary:

"Spiny" is a descriptive word used to indicate something that has pointed, sharp parts. It is often used in relation to plants and animals, conveying a sense of protection or danger.

Academic

Adjective

1. having or covered with protective barbs or quills or spines or thorns or setae etc.
   • a horse with a short bristly mane
   • bristly shrubs
   • burred fruits
   • setaceous whiskers
2. having spines
   • the dorsal fin is spinous

Synonyms

• spinous