What does SPIKE mean?

Parts of Speech:

Noun, Verb

Definitions:

Noun: a thin, pointed piece of metal or wood; a sharp increase in something, especially for a short time.

Verb: to suddenly increase in quantity or intensity; to impale or pierce with a sharp object.

Pronunciations:

US: /spaɪk/

UK: /spʌɪk/

Origin and Usage:

The word "spike" originated in the 14th century from the Old Norse "spīk". As a noun, "spike" refers to a thin, pointed piece of metal or wood, often used for fastening or joining things together. As a verb, "spike" means to suddenly increase in quantity or intensity, such as a sudden spike in a persons blood pressure or a spike in interest rates. It can also mean to impale or pierce with a sharp object, such as spiking a volleyball over the net.

Synonyms:

Noun: nail, stud, pin, barb, point, peak

Verb: increase, surge, shoot up, impale, pierce, stab

Related Words:

knife, spear, prick, thorn, shaft

Example Sentences:

Noun:

• The carpenter used a spike to attach the boards together.
• There was a sudden spike in the temperature, causing everyone to sweat.

Verb:

• The companys sales spiked after the new product was released.
• He spiked the football over the goalpost after scoring a touchdown.