calthrop
/ˈkælθrəp/
noun
- A spiked metal device used to slow down vehicles or horses, designed so that one spike always points upward.
- Medieval soldiers threw calthrops on the battlefield to injure enemy horses.
- A single calthrop can puncture a tire, making it a simple but effective barrier.
- The police scattered calthrops across the road to stop the fleeing car.
- A plant with spiny fruits or seeds that can prick feet or tires, such as the puncture vine.
- Hikers should watch out for calthrops along the trail, especially in summer.
- The calthrop plant spreads quickly in dry, sandy soil.
- We had to pull calthrops out of the lawn because they hurt to step on.
Synonyms