noun
- sharp pointed objects or projections
- athletic shoes with metal points on the soles for traction
- sudden sharp increases in amount, rate, or intensity
verb
- pierces or impales with a sharp point
- increases suddenly and sharply
- adds alcohol to a drink secretly
Usage: informal
Examples
- The fence was topped with metal spikes to keep intruders out.
- She laced up her spikes before the track meet.
- There were dangerous spikes in the stock market last week.
- The volleyball player spikes the ball over the net.
- Gas prices spiked after the hurricane.
- Someone spiked the punch at the party.
- The cactus has sharp spikes covering its surface.
- His fever spiked during the night.