thorns

noun

plural of thorn
as in headaches
something that is a source of irritation your constant questions are a thorn in my side

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of thorns Cue an enthralling chase sequence, doubling back through those higgledy-piggledy Portland streetscapes, toward the woods — the impenetrable thickets and thorns of which magically part in her presence. — Guy Lodge, Variety, 11 Oct. 2026 Grace Carroll gives a poignant performance as the Nightingale—borne aloft with arched back and trembling, outstretched hands by other dancers, who play thorns that pierce her breast—and Adam Elmes makes a seductively sinister Dorian Gray. — Hannah Aizenman, New Yorker, 10 Oct. 2026 Besides a necklace of thorns, which draws small drops of blood, Kahlo appears to be more focused on the relief of healing. — Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 8 Sep. 2026 Roses are considered non-toxic, though thorns can cause injuries and floral preservatives may still pose a risk. — Lauren Paige Richeson, USA Today, 2 Sep. 2026 Keep in mind that rose stems are often armed with sharp prickles, not thorns. — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 25 Aug. 2026 Their kickers’ health and performance for years have been one of the thorns in the team’s side. — Pat Leonard, New York Daily News, 13 Aug. 2026 In many species, the pronotum extends over the body to form elaborate shapes that resemble thorns, buds, or other plant structures, providing excellent camouflage. — Markis Hill, Kansas City Star, 9 Aug. 2026 These networks used to buffer against isolation and economic displacement—the thorns of modern life that make partnership more valuable yet love more difficult to find. — Faith Hill, The Atlantic, 3 Aug. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for thorns
  1. headaches
  2. frustrations
  3. nuisances
  4. irritants
Noun
  • The area is one of the most notorious traffic headaches in the country, with the mountains dividing the bustling Westside employment hub from the San Fernando Valley.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 24 Oct. 2026
  • Those headaches create headwinds, but the underlying story provides support.
    — Michael Khouw, CNBC, 23 Oct. 2026
Definition of headaches
Noun
  • Even Luke Kuechly, who was honored at halftime for his recent induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, couldn’t quell any frustrations.
    — Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 25 Oct. 2026
  • Clinton's lack of a majority and list of frustrations in his first term set the stage for a bruising first midterm election in 1994.
    — Ron Elving, NPR, 24 Oct. 2026
Definition of frustrations
Noun
  • Macomb County, Michigan Spongy moths, formerly known as gypsy moths, are an invasive insect that can damage trees and create nuisances for residents, county officials said.
    — Paula Wethington, CBS News, 20 Oct. 2026
  • But coyotes, with their abundant numbers and reputation as nuisances, are not.
    — Sharon Bernstein, Sacbee.com, 7 Oct. 2026
Definition of nuisances
Noun
  • Avoiding scented soaps, tight clothing and other vulvar irritants may also reduce discomfort, according to the Mayo Clinic.
    — Emily Cegielski, Flow Space, 20 Oct. 2026
  • Nodules can be caused by a variety of factors including scar tissue, lung irritants, inflammatory conditions, current or past infections, or cancer.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 12 Oct. 2026
Definition of irritants

Browse Nearby Words

thorniness
thorns
thorny
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Cite this Entry

“Thorns.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/thorns. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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