Synonyms for

Thorns

Verb / θɔ:rnz / Another word for thorns — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A sharp-pointed woody projection on the stem or other part of a plant.

Synonyms & similar words

thorn irritant pricker spikelet spine prickle sticker spines prickles barbs needles points spurs bristles jags spicules quills darts thistles prongs goads stakes splinters pikes bayonets swords

Synonyms by register

Formal

spicules prickles brambles

Informal

spikes needles

Literary

barbs stings

Antonyms

smoothness bluntness softness ease comfort pleasure benefit

Common collocations

  • sharp thorns
  • rose thorns
  • thorny bush
  • prickly thorns
  • painful thorns
  • avoid the thorns
  • covered in thorns

Word family

noun thorn
adjective thorny

Usage note

The word 'thorns' is often used metaphorically to represent difficulties or painful experiences. It is the plural form of 'thorn'.

Example sentences

  1. The thorns on the rose bush can be quite painful.
  2. She carefully removed the thorns from the stem of the plant.
  3. The hedge was covered in sharp thorns.
  4. The cactus was covered in prickly thorns.
  5. He got a thorn stuck in his shoe.

Quotes

  • The rose is a rose, and was always a rose. But the theory now goes that the apple's a rose, and the pear is, and so's the plum, I suppose. But the rose is a rose, and nobody knows but God and myse'f. - Robert Frost
  • The rose speaks of love silently, in a language known only to the heart. - Unknown
  • A single rose can be my garden... a single friend, my world. - Leo Buscaglia

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