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

This means tackling the thorny issues of four-year college costs and the overall value of college degrees with greater urgency. —Jamie Merisotis, Forbes, 15 Jan. 2025

Access to television broadcasts has been a thorny issue for many fans of the Charlotte Hornets. —Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 14 Jan. 2025

LaVine was in the spotlight last season for playing poorly through a foot injury while also navigating a thorny standoff with the front office over a trade request. —Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 13 Jan. 2025

Constructor Notes What else was TANGO going to be? Join Our Other Game Discussions Want to be part of the conversation about New York Times Games, or maybe get some help with a particularly thorny puzzle? —Elie Levine, New York Times, 9 Jan. 2025

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