thorn 
/ˈθoɚn/ noun
plural thorns /ˈθoɚn/ noun [count] 1 : a sharp point on the stem of some plants (such as roses) — see color picture 2 Brit : a tree or bush that has thorns
a thorn in the/your flesh/side
: a person or thing that repeatedly annoys you or causes problems for you
▪ He's been a thorn in my side for years. ▪ a thorn in the side of the industry
▪ He's been a thorn in my side for years. ▪ a thorn in the side of the industry
— thorned /ˈθoɚnd/ adjective
/ˈθoɚnd/ adjective— thorn·less /ˈθoɚnləs/ adjective
/ˈθoɚnləs/ adjective
