A sharp, pointed outgrowth from the epidermis or bark of a plant that can be easily removed without damaging the underlying tissue. Unlike thorns, prickles are surface structures, as seen on roses and blackberries.
From Old English 'pricel' meaning 'a sharp point,' related to 'prica' meaning 'a point or dot.' The word has maintained its meaning of a small, sharp projection throughout its linguistic evolution.
Prickles are nature's removable armor! Unlike thorns that are modified branches, prickles grow from the plant's skin and can break off easily - which is why rose prickles come off when you handle the stems, leaving the plant unharmed but you with a small wound.
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