spinous

• Adjectif signifiant plein d'épines ou de piquants ; également utilisé au sens figuré pour décrire quelque chose de difficile ou d'épineux. Dans l'usage moderne, largement remplacé par 'spiny'.

An adjective meaning full of spines or thorns; also used figuratively to describe something difficult or thorny. Now largely replaced by 'spiny' in modern usage.

1. Having spinesC1formal

   Covered with or having sharp, pointed projections or thorns.

   épineux

   • The spinous cactus is difficult to handle without gloves.
   • Many spinous plants are adapted to dry environments.
   • The hedgehog's spinous coat protects it from predators.

   Synonymesbarbedbristlypointedpricklyspikedspinythorny

   Antonymessmoothspinelessunarmed

2. Shaped like a spineC1formal

   Resembling a spine or thorn in form; needle-like or pointed.

   Épineux (en forme d'épine)

   • The spinous processes of the vertebrae are visible in the X-ray.
   • Certain corals have spinous structures that deter fish.
   • The leaf margins are spinous, making the plant appear jagged.

   Synonymesacicularneedlelikepointedpricklyspiky