noun
spike
spyk
noun
1
A large, pointed piece of metal, or anything shaped like one.
"The fence was topped with metal spikes to deter climbers."
2
A sudden, sharp increase, especially on a graph or in a price.
"There was a spike in demand for masks during the outbreak."
"Electricity prices saw a spike after the cold snap."
verb
1
To add alcohol or a drug to a drink, usually without the other person knowing.
"Someone spiked the punch at the party."
2
To rise sharply and suddenly.
"Traffic on the site spiked after the story went viral."
How to Use Spike
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA sharp point, or a sudden jump in something like a graph, price, or drink content.
Common mistake
Never assume a drink is safe from being spiked — watch it being poured, especially at parties or bars.
Common pairings
a spike in cases
spike a drink
metal spikes
Word Forms
spiked past tense, spikes plural, Spikes plural, spikes singular
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The fence was topped with metal _____ to deter climbers.
Etymology
From Old Norse spík, "spike" or "sprig," part of a wider Germanic family of words for pointed sticks and nails.