thorn

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Dutch Bros, a coffee and beverage chain still unknown in many parts of the country, is becoming a thorn in Starbucks’s side.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 1, 2026

But for Freeman, it is his contact numbers that have been a thorn in his side all offseason.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 24, 2026

Before becoming premier Takaichi was a regular at the Yasukuni shrine, a flashpoint site honouring Japan's war dead that has long been a thorn in regional ties.

From Barron's • Feb. 5, 2026

Supply shortages in the memory market have been a thorn in the side of technology companies, and Qualcomm is feeling the pain as well.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 4, 2026

Vivi would like to punish Madoc, but her only power is to be a thorn in his side.

From "The Cruel Prince" by Holly Black