prickly
//ˈprɪkli//
Adjective
pricklyCanonical form
pricklierComparative
prickliestSuperlative
1
Covered with or having sharp points or thorns.
Be careful of the prickly cactus.
2
Causing a tingling or stinging sensation on the skin.
The wool sweater felt prickly against my skin.
3
(Of a person) easily irritated or offended; bad-tempered.
He gets prickly when people ask about his personal life.
4
(Of a topic or situation) difficult to deal with; causing controversy or discomfort.
The topic of salary increases is always a prickly issue in our company.