Definition

A sharp, pointed part of a plant that can cause pain or injury.

Example

Be careful of the thorn on that rose bush; it can hurt if you touch it.

Conversation

I was gardening yesterday and got poked by a thorn on the rose bush.

Ouch! Those can really hurt if you're not careful.

Yeah, I should have worn gloves, but I didn't expect any thorns to be there.

Lesson learned! Always better to be safe than sorry.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'thorn' originates from Old English 'þorn' (meaning thorn or prickle), which is related to the Proto-Germanic '*thurnō' (meaning thorn) and the Proto-Indo-European '*dher-' (meaning to hold or support). The word 'thorn' refers to a sharp, pointed structure on a plant, which can hold or support the plant's defense against herbivores.

Memory Tip

Imagine a sharp point that 'holds' its ground — that's what a thorn does, protecting the plant.

Visually Confused Words