noun
- plural of prickliness; the quality or state of being prickly; having sharp points or spines
- the quality of being easily irritated, touchy, or sensitive in manner or temperament
Usage: usually uncountable in singular form; plural used when referring to multiple instances or types
Usage: figurative use; refers to emotional or social sensitivity
Examples
- The pricklinesses of the cactus plant protect it from desert predators.
- Her pricklinesses made it difficult for colleagues to work with her on the project.
- The hedgehog's natural pricklinesses serve as an effective defense mechanism.
- His pricklinesses about criticism often led to conflict with his supervisor.
- The various pricklinesses of different rose varieties affect how they should be handled.
- She was known for her pricklinesses whenever anyone questioned her decisions.