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.

Manchester City have been a thorn in Arsenal's side in their quest for silverware.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

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

The move came days after Gail Slater, the Justice Department’s antitrust chief, was bounced from her job, reportedly after becoming a thorn in the side of some business interests.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 23, 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

She told herself it would just feel like a thorn to the enormous cow.

From "Fablehaven" by Brandon Mull