A barbed wire features pointed hooks.
A plectrum is a thin object or instrument that ends in a point . From this meaning, the term is used in different contexts.
A spike can be the hook that is part of a fence to prevent humans or animals from entering a place. The barrier created in this way is usually called barbed wire . For example: “The businessman decided to surround his property with barbed wire to prevent any stranger from trying to access his home,” “The entire perimeter of the field is protected with barbed wire,” “The child was injured by the barbed wire .” spikes when he tried to climb the wall.”
The quill, on the other hand, can be the thorn of certain plants or the pointed piece of skin of an animal . These quills have defensive purposes: “Be careful with the hedgehog's quills,” “The old man tripped and fell on the rose bush, getting stuck in the quills.”
The plectrum in music
In the field of music , the plectrum is the accessory that allows you to play the guitar, bass and other stringed instruments. The concept is also used to name the metal needle that is part of a record player and that makes it possible to play a record: “I can't rehearse: I forgot the picks,” “The sound of the pick on the record is magical,” “The guitarist of the band gave me a pick.”
Other names given to the plectrum used to play stringed instruments are plectrum , vellum , straw , uña , uñeta and nib . Its body is thin and small but firm and is usually triangular in shape. Its function is not always to replace the fingers, but it can also complement their actions, and it is made of different materials; The most common option is plastic , and the following types are offered:
- Celluloid : it was the first material with which the pick was made. Nowadays it is no longer so common, unless you want to produce a vintage sound (similar to that of yesteryear). It is worth mentioning that this plastic is especially flammable, which is why it is not recommended for guitarists who smoke while playing.
- Nylon : provides a slippery and soft texture, which is why it is common for it to be marketed with a layer that provides the necessary friction to facilitate grip and prevent it from falling in the middle of execution . This material is very flexible and allows the production of very fine spikes. It is worth mentioning that, although it is a very popular option, the nylon pick hardens after a couple of months of heavy use, after which it usually breaks easily and therefore it is always advisable to have spare ones.
- Tortex : This plastic has been specially designed to imitate the feel of picks made from turtle shell. In addition to the advantage of not killing an animal that has done nothing to guitarists, it offers a very comfortable and not very slippery surface .
A plectrum is an accessory used to play the guitar, bass and other stringed instruments.
Suffering or anger
Púa, finally, can be that which causes suffering or anger . The expression put a barb , for example, refers to touching on a topic that is uncomfortable or unwanted by the interlocutor, especially if it talks about a conflict that the interlocutor has with another person or if something negative that has been said about him behind his back is mentioned.
Let's look at a couple of sentences with this use of the term: "My brother was poking fun at me for hours until I decided to go to Carina's to ask for an explanation," "I don't want to prick you, but it seems to me that he's cheating on you."