Synonyms for

Spikes

Verb / spaɪks / Another word for spikes — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Spikes are sharp, pointed objects that stick out from a surface.

Synonyms & similar words

spike spikeout spindle impale ear stilettoheel capitulum transfix fortify spikeheel empale lace prickles thorns barbs spurs needles spicules jags points spines quills spurs bristles pikes spicula prongs stingers darts lances

Synonyms by register

Formal

points protrusions projections barbs

Informal

prongs tips points needles

Literary

thorns spears quills

Antonyms

smoothness flatness levelness curves dips valleys

Common collocations

  • sharp spikes
  • metal spikes
  • ice spikes
  • spike heels
  • spike strip
  • spike protein
  • spike in prices

Word family

noun spike
verb spike
adjective spiky

Usage note

As a noun, 'spikes' often refers to sharp, pointed objects. As a verb, it can mean to increase sharply or to sabotage.

Example sentences

  1. The football player wore cleats with long spikes to help him run faster.
  2. The cactus has spikes to protect itself from animals that might want to eat it.
  3. The hair on my arms stood up when I saw the spikes on the porcupine.
  4. The carpenter used a hammer to drive the spikes into the wood.
  5. The runner slipped on the wet track because his shoes didn't have enough spikes.

Quotes

  • I have always been afraid of banks because they have such long spikes on their gates; I always imagine myself impaled on them.
  • Success is like reaching an important birthday and finding you're exactly the same.
  • Spikes in the railroad track are for the safety of trains; they are designed to slow down the trains that go too fast.

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