spike
13 synonyms for spike, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A large, pointed piece of metal, or anything shaped like one.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
A large, pointed piece of metal, or anything shaped like one.
“He hammered a spike into the ground to hold the tent.”
How to use spike
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
a spike in cases
spike a drink
metal spikes
Etymology
From Old Norse spík, "spike" or "sprig," part of a wider Germanic family of words for pointed sticks and nails.
Full origin of spike →Frequently asked questions
What does “spike” mean?
The word “spike” means a large, pointed piece of metal, or anything shaped like one. In plain terms, a sharp point, or a sudden jump in something like a graph, price, or drink content.
How do you pronounce “spike”?
“Spike” is pronounced spyk (/spaɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “spike” in a sentence?
Here is “spike” used in a sentence: “The fence was topped with metal spikes to deter climbers.”
What part of speech is “spike”?
Depending on how it is used, “spike” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “spike” come from?
The word “spike” comes from Old Norse. From Old Norse spík, "spike" or "sprig," part of a wider Germanic family of words for pointed sticks and nails.
Is “spike” a common word?
“Spike” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “spike” have?
“Spike” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a large, pointed piece of metal, or anything shaped like one.
What is the difference between a spike and a surge?
Both describe a sharp increase, but a 'spike' is sudden and usually brief, rising and then falling quickly. A 'surge' suggests a strong rise that is often more sustained, building up and staying elevated for longer.
What is the difference between a spike and a peak?
A peak is the highest point reached, emphasizing the top of a curve. A spike is a sudden sharp rise that often falls just as quickly, emphasizing the abrupt movement; a spike creates a peak, but the words stress different things.
What is the difference between spike and jump when describing an increase?
Both mean to rise suddenly, but 'spike' implies a sharper, more dramatic rise that is often temporary. 'Jump' is a more general sudden increase and does not necessarily suggest a quick fall afterward.
