Pronunciation: [pɹˈɪki] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "pricky" can be confusing because it contains the letter "c" which is not pronounced. The correct phonetic transcription is /ˈprɪki/. The "c" in this word is silent, and the "i" follows a short "i" sound, creating the "ck" sound. "Pricky" means having small pointed projections or thorns, and the correct spelling is important for understanding and conveying its meaning accurately in writing.
There is no widespread or recognized dictionary definition for the term "pricky." However, based on its common usage and the context in which it is usually employed, a definition can be derived.
"Pricky" can be understood as an informal adjective that describes something or someone as being unpleasant, irritable, or causing discomfort. It often refers to the presence of sharp, pointed, or prickly elements, both literal and figurative, that elicit feelings of irritation or unease.
When describing a person as "pricky," it typically suggests that the individual possesses a prickly personality, characterized by a tendency to be easily annoyed, touchy, or argumentative. Such individuals may have a tendency to react defensively or offensively to even minor provocations, making it difficult to engage with them in a calm or constructive manner.
In a literal sense, "pricky" may describe objects or substances that have thorns, spines, or sharp protrusions that can cause discomfort or pain when touched. This includes plants like cacti or thistles, or objects with sharp edges or points.
Overall, "pricky" is an informal term used to express various forms of annoyance, displeasure, or discomfort, typically pertaining to individual behavior, attributes, or qualities, as well as physical objects.
The word "pricky" is an adjective that means having or covered with prickles or thorns, or causing a sensation of pricking. It is derived from the noun "prick", which has Old English roots and originally referred to a sharp point or thorn. The Old English word "pricca" and the Middle English variant "pricke" evolved into the modern term "prick". Over time, the suffix "-y" was added to form the adjective "pricky", resulting in a word that describes something spiky or causing a prickling sensation.
