as in headache
something that is a source of irritation
your constant questions are a thorn in my side
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Recent Examples of thorn
The Nuggets did so despite missing starting power forward Aaron Gordon — who has been a giant thorn in the Lakers’ side with his offensive rebounding, finishing and defense against LeBron James — and being on the second night of a back-to-back after a heartbreaking loss to Dallas.
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Jovan Buha, The Athletic, 24 Nov. 2024
Uncertainty around Hamilton’s ankle injury is another thorn in their side.
—Sam Cohn, Baltimore Sun, 13 Nov. 2024
Despite the easing of the inflation rate, still-high prices remain a thorn in the side of consumers, which may explain the dismal Gallup Poll results.
—Jill Schlesinger, The Mercury News, 12 Nov. 2024
Good has also been a thorn in GOP leadership’s side as a conservative rabble-rouser, including being among a handful of GOP members who helped oust former Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) from his Speakership.
—Caroline Vakil, The Hill, 6 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for thorn 
Jovan Buha, The Athletic, 24 Nov. 2024
Uncertainty around Hamilton’s ankle injury is another thorn in their side.
—Sam Cohn, Baltimore Sun, 13 Nov. 2024
Despite the easing of the inflation rate, still-high prices remain a thorn in the side of consumers, which may explain the dismal Gallup Poll results.
—Jill Schlesinger, The Mercury News, 12 Nov. 2024
Good has also been a thorn in GOP leadership’s side as a conservative rabble-rouser, including being among a handful of GOP members who helped oust former Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) from his Speakership.
—Caroline Vakil, The Hill, 6 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for thorn
Recent Examples of Synonyms for thorn
Noun
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Symptoms linked to the mystery disease include fever, headaches, coughing and anemia, raising concerns about the Congo's limited medical infrastructure.Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 12 Dec. 2024
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That was until a throbbing headache set in, said Covert, 18.Erika Edwards, NBC News, 12 Dec. 2024
Noun
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The cat must be happy in their environment to thrive, so animal coordinators on movie sets must ensure that studio temperature, cast and crew interactions, and the moving of objects aren't a nuisance to the cat.Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2024
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Muscle cramps can be a nuisance, but there are ways to relieve the pain and discomfort.Laura Schober, Health, 8 Dec. 2024
Noun
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This combination forms a barrier that protects the stomach lining from irritants, potentially reducing inflammation and heartburn.Boutayna Chokrane, WIRED, 6 Dec. 2024
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Avoid triggers: Identify and avoid known irritants, such as soap and laundry detergents containing fragrances or other harsh chemicals. Try an oatmeal bath: Oatmeal baths can soothe dry, itchy, irritated skin.Lindsay Curtis, Health, 27 Nov. 2024
Noun
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While frustration has mounted in recent years with Boston’s lack of big moves, reduced payroll and having missed the postseason in five of the last six seasons, the wheels are turning toward contention.Ken Rosenthal, The Athletic, 12 Dec. 2024
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As Venus and Mars clash, avoid taking frustration out on colleagues.USA TODAY, USA TODAY, 12 Dec. 2024
Noun
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Moore, creating separation on a rub route, was streaking across the field — from right to left in Williams’ vision and with rookie cornerback Terrion Arnold trailing him by 6 yards.Dan Wiederer, Chicago Tribune, 4 Dec. 2024
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During the conversation, the former late-night host rubs sauce all over his face—and on his nipples, through his shirt—pours reckless amounts onto his wings, and later drinks it straight from the bottle.Ian Crouch, The New Yorker, 29 Nov. 2024
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Cite this Entry
“Thorn.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/thorn. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.
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