prickle

1 of 2

noun

prick·​le ˈpri-kəl 

1

: a fine sharp process or projection

especially : a sharp pointed emergence arising from the epidermis or cortex (see cortex sense 3a) of a plant (such as a rose or raspberry) compare spine, thorn

2

: a prickling or tingling sensation

prickle

2 of 2

verb

prickled; prickling ˈpri-k(ə-)liŋ 

transitive verb

1

: to prick slightly

2

: to produce prickles in

intransitive verb

: to cause or feel a prickling, tingling, or stinging sensation

Examples of prickle in a Sentence

Noun

She felt a prickle of fear as the stranger came closer to her.

He felt the familiar prickle of excitement as the game began.

Verb

The burrs were prickling my arm.

The wool sweater prickled my skin.

My skin prickled with fear.

The hair prickled on the back of my neck.

She felt a prickling sensation in her shoulder.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Researchers at Cornell University, meanwhile, eradicated prickles in an Australian fruit plant known as the desert raisin. —Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 2 Aug. 2024

The prickles can also nick the skin, causing irritation. —Miri Talabac, Baltimore Sun, 11 July 2024

Verb

There also may be discomfort, prickling, or an itching sensation at the site of the bite. —CBS News, 4 Dec. 2024

People may also notice a discomfort, prickling or itching sensation at the site of the bite, the government agency said, adding that these symptoms can remain for several days. —Jonathan Limehouse, USA TODAY, 2 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English prikle, from Old English pricle; akin to Old English prica prick

First Known Use

Noun

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

circa 1522, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Kids Definition

prickle

1 of 2 noun

prick·​le ˈprik-əl 

1

: a small sharp point or a sharp pointed part (as a thorn on a plant) that sticks out

2

: a slight stinging or tingling sensation

prickle

2 of 2 verb

prickled; prickling ˈprik-(ə-)liŋ 

1

: to prick slightly

2

: to cause or feel a slight stinging or tingling sensation