Thorny/ˈθɔːrni/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Literal Meaning Directly refers to physical objects with sharp, pointy extensions. Be careful of the thorny branches when hiking through the woods. Pro Tip 2/3Visual Imagery Helps create a clear picture or warn of physical pain when touching. He grabbed the thorny stem without gloves and yelped in pain. Pro Tip 3/3Metaphor for Difficult Sometimes used metaphorically to describe situations requiring careful handling. Navigating their thorny relationship required patience and diplomacy.