prickly crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "prickly crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SPIKY: This word directly describes something covered with sharp, pointed projections, making it a very common and fitting answer for 'prickly'.
6 Letters
THORNY: Often associated with plants like roses or brambles, 'thorny' perfectly conveys the idea of something being covered in sharp, stiff points.
BARBED: Describing something with sharp, backward-pointing projections, similar to a fishhook, which also fits the 'prickly' description.
7 Letters
BRISTLY: This refers to something covered with stiff, coarse hairs or bristles, such as a brush or some animals, which can also be described as prickly.
TESTIER: The comparative form of 'testy', meaning more easily irritated or impatient, fitting the metaphorical sense of 'prickly' personality.
9 Letters
IRASCIBLE: While not physically prickly, 'irascible' describes a person who is easily angered or irritable, implying a 'prickly' personality or temperament.
More About "prickly crossword clue"
The word "prickly" is a fascinating clue in crosswords because it carries both a literal and a figurative meaning, making it versatile and sometimes challenging. Literally, it refers to something covered with or having sharp points, like a cactus, a hedgehog, or a thorny bush. Words like SPIKY, THORNY, and BARBED are direct literal interpretations.
Figuratively, "prickly" can describe a person who is easily offended, irritable, or has a difficult temperament. Think of someone with a "prickly personality" or "prickly disposition." In this context, answers such as IRASCIBLE or TESTY come into play. Understanding which meaning the clue hints at often depends on the letter count and other intersecting words in the puzzle.
Mastering clues like "prickly" involves recognizing these dual meanings and being flexible in your approach. Always consider whether the answer should describe a physical characteristic or a behavioral one. This duality is a common trick used by crossword setters to add depth to their puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: For clues with multiple meanings like "prickly," always check the surrounding clues and any theme the puzzle might have. If other clues relate to nature, the answer is likely physical. If they relate to emotions or human behavior, it's likely figurative.
- Consider Letter Count: The number of letters in the answer block is your strongest hint. If you have 5 letters, you might think of SPIKY or BURRY. If it's 9 letters, IRASCIBLE becomes a strong candidate. Always use the known letter count to narrow down possibilities.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: If you're stuck, brainstorm synonyms for "prickly" and even consider antonyms. Sometimes thinking about what it's *not* can lead you to the right answer. For example, if it's not "smooth" or "amiable," what is it?
- Practice with Common Crossword Clues: Many common words have frequently used crossword answers. Familiarize yourself with these patterns. While "prickly" might seem straightforward, its dual nature makes it a good practice clue for understanding nuances.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'prickly' mean in a crossword context?
'Prickly' in a crossword context can refer to something physically sharp (like thorns or spines), or metaphorically, a person who is irritable, easily offended, or difficult to deal with. The context of other clues or known letters often helps distinguish between these meanings.
How can I identify if 'prickly' refers to a plant or a personality?
Look for surrounding clues. If other clues relate to botany, gardens, or nature, a physical answer like THORNY or SPIKY is likely. If the puzzle has a theme of emotions, human traits, or abstract concepts, then a personality-based answer like IRASCIBLE or TESTY might be correct. Also, consider the number of letters needed.
Are there common alternative spellings for prickly-related words?
While 'prickly' itself doesn't have common alternative spellings that would appear in a crossword, its synonyms might. For example, 'spikey' is a less common but sometimes seen variant of 'spiky'. Always check the exact letter count required by the puzzle.