Definition

Adjective: * Having a back that is covered with or characterized by spines, thorns, or sharp, rigid projections. This term is primarily used in zoological descriptions, especially for certain arthropods and reptiles.

Usage

This is a descriptive, compound adjective. It is typically used attributively (before a noun) to specify a physical characteristic of an animal. It is a technical or scientific term rather than one used in everyday conversation.

Examples

• The spiny-backed orb-weaver is a common garden spider with a distinctive, armored abdomen.
• Researchers discovered a new species of spiny-backed lizard in the desert.
• The creature's spiny-backed appearance serves as a defense mechanism against predators.

Advanced Usage

• The term can sometimes be used metaphorically to describe a person or thing that is figuratively prickly or defensive.
  • The spiny-backed critic rejected every proposal with sharp comments.

Variants and Related Words

• Spiny (adj): Covered with or full of spines; thorny.
• Spinose (adj): Another technical term meaning spiny or having spines.
• Spined (adj): Having a spine or spines (can be used more generally than "spiny-backed").

Synonyms

• Armored (in a zoological context)
• Prickly-backed
• Thorny-backed

Antonyms

• Smooth-backed
• Soft-backed

Adjective

1. having the back covered with spines