How Do You Spell PRICKLINESS?

Pronunciation: [pɹˈɪklinəs] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "Prickliness" is quite complex. According to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), the word starts with a voiced bilabial plosive /p/, followed by a voiceless palato-alveolar sibilant /ɹ/. The middle part of the word consists of a voiced alveolar plosive /ɪ/ and a voiceless palato-alveolar sibilant /k/. The word concludes with a voiceless alveolar lateral approximant /n/ and a voiced palatal nasal /ɛs/. Overall, the word "Prickliness" has a fascinating phonetic structure that can be challenging to spell correctly.

PRICKLINESS Meaning and Definition

1. Prickliness refers to a state or quality of being prickly. It is a noun that describes the characteristic of something being covered in or having prickles or thorns, giving rise to a prickly or spiky texture. Prickliness can be used to describe the physical sensation that arises when one encounters or touches something prickly, such as a thorny plant or a cactus. The sensation is often described as sharp, stinging, or causing discomfort or pain.

   Figuratively, prickliness can also refer to a person's disposition or attitude. It is used to describe someone who is easily irritated, touchy, or sensitive, often reacting defensively or aggressively to even slight or perceived insults or criticism. A person who exhibits prickliness may have a tendency to be easily offended, defensive, or quick to anger. This can manifest in various interpersonal interactions, causing friction or conflict in relationships.

   Prickliness can also be used metaphorically to describe concepts or situations. For example, a difficult or challenging situation that requires careful navigation or handling may be described as prickly. It alludes to the need for caution, delicacy, or tact in dealing with such circumstances.

   In summary, prickliness encompasses both the physical sensation of encountering thorny objects and the behavioral or attitudinal tendency to be easily irritated or sensitive. It can describe both literal and metaphorical situations, making it a versatile term to convey certain aspects of texture, disposition, or circumstance.

2. The state of having many prickles; the state of being prickly.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PRICKLINESS

• prikliness
• pricklness
• Pricklesness
• Pricklisness
• Prinkliness
• priceleness
• Prinsliness

Etymology of PRICKLINESS

The word "prickliness" is derived from the adjective "prickly", which comes from the Middle English word "prykke", meaning "a pointed object" or "to prick". It ultimately traces back to the Old English word "pricca". The "-ness" suffix is added to form the noun "prickliness", which refers to the state or quality of being prickly.