Prick Meaning and Definition
Prick
Pronunciation
/prɪk/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A small, pointed or sharp point, such as a thorn, a spike, or a pinprick.
Examples
- The cactus had several pricks on its surface.
- The surgeon carefully removed the prick from the patient’s skin.
Synonyms
- Thorn
- Spine
- Pinprick
Antonyms
- Softness
- Softness
- Smoothness
Etymology
The word “prick” has its roots in Old English, where it referred to a point or a sharp object. Over time, its meaning has expanded to include a small, pointed or sharp point on a surface or a pinprick in the skin.
Usage Notes
In formal writing, it is generally preferred to use the word “thorn” instead of “prick” when referring to a sharp point on a plant. However, in informal writing and in everyday conversation, both words are commonly used.
Cultural References
In popular culture, the word “prick” has been used in various contexts, such as in music, literature, and film. For example, the phrase “prickly pear” is often used to describe a cactus plant, while the word “pricked” is sometimes used to describe a needling or poking sensation.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Stick it to ’em, prick!
- Prick up your ears!
Related Words or Phrases
- Thorn
- Spine
- Pinprick
- Point
Collocations
- Prick of discomfort
- Prick of pain
- Prick of sensation
Frequency of Use
The word “prick” is a common term in everyday language, with moderate frequency of use. It is often used in informal contexts, such as in conversation and social media.
Common Misspellings
The most common misspelling of the word “prick” is probably “prickk.” However, it is worth noting that this misspelling is generally considered a typo and not a legitimate variant of the word.