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Definition of spiny

spiny

/ˈspaɪ.ni/
spi · ny
Adverb:spinily
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spiny Lexical Profile

spiny Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Full of or covered with sharp spines, thorns, or prickles.

Example

"The desert hikers carefully navigated around the spiny cacti lining the narrow trail."

2

Full of difficulties, complications, or contentious points; perplexing.

Example

"The committee spent several hours debating the spiny legal questions surrounding data privacy."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for spiny

• Nearby Words

spinout
spinster
spinsterhood
spiny
spiny bush viper
spiny dogfish
spiny lizard

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in late Middle English from the noun 'spine' (derived from Latin 'spina', meaning 'thorn' or 'backbone') plus the suffix '-y'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Spiny. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/spiny
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