Definition

Having stiff, short hairs or bristles; rough or prickly in texture.

Example

The bristly brush was perfect for cleaning the stubborn dirt off the shoes.

Conversation

Have you seen that new plant I got?

Yeah, it's really unique! What kind is it?

It's a cactus, but it's quite bristly on the edges.

I love cacti! They add such a cool vibe to the room.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bristly → It is formed from "bristle" (from Old English "brysl", meaning a stiff hair or fiber) and the suffix "-y" (meaning characterized by). The word "bristly" describes something that is characterized by stiff hairs or fibers.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bristle' as referring to stiff hairs, and remember that 'bristly' means something that has those stiff hairs.

Visually Confused Words