Word Frequency
spike1 (spaɪk
)
Definitions
noun
- a sharp point
- any sharp-pointed object, esp one made of metal
- a long metal nail
- (physics)
- a transient variation in voltage or current in an electric circuit
- a graphical recording of this, such as one of the peaks on an electroencephalogram
- plural shoes with metal projections on the sole and heel for greater traction, as used by athletes
- the straight unbranched antler of a young deer
- (British, slang) another word for dosshouse
verb
- to secure or supply with or as with spikes
- to render ineffective or block the intentions of; thwart
- to impale on a spike
- to add alcohol to (a drink)
- (journalism) to reject (a news story)
- (volleyball) to hit (a ball) sharply downwards with an overarm motion from the front of one's own court into the opposing court
- (formerly) to render (a cannon) ineffective by blocking its vent with a spike
Word Origin
C13 spyk; related to Old English spīcing nail, Old Norse spīk splinter, Middle Low German spīker spike, Norwegian spīk spoke², Latin spīca sharp point; see spike²Translations for 'spike'
Example Sentences Including 'spike'
Apart from a single short, sharp spike , they showed one continuous straight line.Grace
At a quick glance, Leonard read off the timing against the spike : some time the previous Friday night.Grace
I stopped myself quickly when someone pounded a spike into my head.The Dutch Blue Error
Jenkins has always denied crushing her skull with a metal tent spike.Sun, News of the World (2001)
Mr. Toulouse said the attack did not appear to be widespread, since the company had not seen a big spike in customer calls about it.Globe and Mail (2004)
Post the details on Indiamarkets and help someone else cope with a sudden spike in demand.Business Today (2000)
Results in 2003 results were boosted by an oil price spike.CBC (2004)
They slashed his legs with a knife, pushed his hand on to the spike then fled with his phone.Sun, News of the World (2002)
Young people, however, do sometimes spike each others ' drinks and/ or drugs.Taking Drugs Seriously
Sponsored Links
Log in to comment on this word.
Comments
sense 13 is used more widely than volleyball - also used in American football to refer to throwing down the ball as an act of celebration or to stop the clock
Report as inappropriate