a : TROUBLESOME, VEXATIOUS <prickly issues> b : easily irritated <had a prickly disposition Main Entry: prick·ly Pronunciation: 'pri-k(&-)lE Function: adjective Inflected Form(s): prick·li·er; -est Date: 1578 1 : full of or covered with prickles; especially : distinguished from related kinds by the presence of prickles 2 : marked by prickling : STINGING <a prickly sensation> 3 a : TROUBLESOME, VEXATIOUS <prickly issues> b : easily irritated <had a prickly disposition> To subscribe, change options, or unsubscribe please see the instructions at http://listlva.lib.va.us/archives/va-roots.html