thorny

adjective

ˈthȯr-nē 

thornier; thorniest

1

: full of thorns

2

: full of difficulties or controversial points : ticklish

a thorny problem

thorniness noun

Synonyms

• brambly
• prickly
• scratchy
• thistly

Examples of thorny in a Sentence

stay out of the thorny brambles unless you want a ton of scratches

Recent Examples on the Web

Disney, which navigated a thorny, multi-player proxy fight early in the year with Nelson Peltz the primary antagonist, ended 2024 up 23%. —Dade Hayes, Deadline, 31 Dec. 2024

The first step is a revolution of thought, including acknowledging the full scope of our belief system — including the thorny parts. —Andre Gee, Rolling Stone, 31 Dec. 2024

One particularly thorny issue within the conference that could make collaboration with Democrats an option for Republicans is the state and local tax (SALT) deduction. —Tobias Burns, The Hill, 23 Dec. 2024

But many thorny technology, product and organizational challenges remain to be solved before AI agents can completely replace humans in the workforce. —Rob Toews, Forbes, 22 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

thorny

adjective

ˈthȯr-nē 

thornier; thorniest

1

: full of or covered with thorns

thorny rose bushes

2

: full of difficulties

a thorny problem

thorniness noun