1. having sharp points or spikes; covered with spikes
2. easily annoyed or irritated; bad-tempered
Usage: informal

Examples

• The cactus had spikey leaves that could hurt if touched.
• She wore her hair in a spikey punk style.
• The hedgehog rolled into a spikey ball when frightened.
• He’s been really spikey lately since he lost his job.
• The spikey fence kept intruders out of the garden.
• Her spikey attitude made it hard to have a conversation.
• The plant’s spikey stems protected it from animals.