spike
|spike|
/spaɪk/
sharp increase or pointed object
Etymology
'spike' originates from Old Norse, specifically the word 'spík,' where 'spík' meant 'pointed object.'
'spík' transformed into the Middle English word 'spike,' and eventually became the modern English word 'spike.'
Initially, it meant 'a pointed object,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a long, thin, pointed piece of metal, wood, or another rigid material.
The fence was topped with sharp spikes.
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Noun 2
a sudden increase in something, especially a sharp rise in prices or rates.
There was a spike in electricity prices last month.
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Antonyms
Verb 1
to increase sharply.
The temperature spiked to 40 degrees Celsius.
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Verb 2
to add alcohol or another substance to a drink or food.
He spiked the punch with vodka.
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Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39