spiny

adjective

ˈspī-nē 

spinier; spiniest

1

: abounding with difficulties, obstacles, or annoyances : thorny

spiny problems

2

: covered or armed with spines

broadly : bearing spines, prickles, or thorns

3

: slender and pointed like a spine

spininess noun

Synonyms

• catchy
• delicate
• difficult
• dodgy [chiefly British]
• hairy
• knotty
• nasty
• prickly
• problematic
• problematical
• sensitive
• sticky
• thorny
• ticklish
• touchy
• tough
• tricksy
• tricky

Examples of spiny in a Sentence

this promises to be a spiny problem to negotiate

Recent Examples on the Web

The tuatara of New Zealand, a spiny reptilian relic, can outlive generations of researchers studying it. —Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 29 Mar. 2025

Though these prawns have spiny shells that are difficult to peel, the meat has a sweet taste like lobster, making this entree one of the eatery’s main attractions. —Patrick Connolly, Orlando Sentinel, 21 Mar. 2025

Zebra and quagga mussels, spiny water flea and dozens of other Eurasian organisms colonized the Great Lakes starting in the late 1900s after arriving in ballast water from transoceanic ships. —Christine Keiner, The Conversation, 28 Feb. 2025

Aloe vera is a spiny succulent plant that looks similar to agave. —Atenea Morales De La Cruz, Vogue, 13 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1586, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing spiny

• spiny anteater
• spiny-headed worm
• spiny lobster

Rhymes for spiny

• briny
• piney
• shiny
• tiny
• consignee
• sunshiny

Kids Definition

spiny

adjective

ˈspī-nē 

spinier; spiniest

1

: full of difficulties, obstacles, or problems : thorny

2

: having or covered with spines, thorns, or prickles

spininess noun