Lace vs. Spike — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 4, 2024
Lace often refers to a delicate fabric made of yarn or thread in an open weblike pattern, while a spike is a sharp, pointed object or piece.
Difference Between Lace and Spike
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Lace is a fine, open fabric, usually made of cotton or silk, that is created by looping, twisting, or knitting threads in intricate patterns. It is often used for decorative purposes in clothing and home décor, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. On the other hand, a spike is a long, sharp-pointed piece of material such as metal, wood, or plastic. It can serve various purposes, from fastening objects together to being used as a weapon or a tool.
Lace-making is an art form with a rich history, dating back to the 15th century, and it has evolved over time with various styles and techniques originating from different parts of the world. Spikes are common in sports equipment, such as running shoes for better traction, or in railroads and construction for securing materials. The term "spike" can also refer to a sudden increase in magnitude or concentration, such as a spike in temperature or traffic on a website.
Both lace and spikes have their unique applications and significance. Lace is synonymous with delicacy and craftsmanship, often associated with fashion and aesthetics. It requires precision and skill to create the elaborate designs that lace is known for. In contrast, spikes are valued for their functionality and strength, providing support, security, and performance enhancement in various contexts.
While lace is primarily decorative, enhancing the beauty of garments, table linens, and even architectural elements with its detailed patterns, spikes are pragmatic, designed for practical applications that require durability and effectiveness. This juxtaposition highlights the diverse ways in which different materials and designs are utilized to meet specific needs and preferences.
Lace and spikes represent two ends of a spectrum in terms of texture and purpose. Where lace adds a soft, intricate touch to objects and attire, spikes offer a sharp, efficient solution to practical problems. Their differences underscore the versatility and creativity in material use across different fields, from fashion to construction.
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Comparison Chart
Material
Yarn or thread
Metal, wood, plastic
Purpose
Decorative, adding elegance
Functional, providing support or traction
Associated With
Fashion, home décor
Construction, sports, tools
Texture
Soft, delicate
Hard, sharp
Significance
Symbolizes sophistication and craftsmanship
Indicates strength and functionality
Compare with Definitions
Lace
A delicate, open weave fabric made from cotton, silk, or synthetic fibers.
The bride's dress was adorned with fine lace detailing.
Spike
A sudden increase or surge in quantity or intensity.
There was a spike in traffic on the website after the announcement.
Lace
Decorative, patterned edging added to clothing or linen.
She added lace trim to the hem of her skirt for a feminine touch.
Spike
A sharp, pointed piece of metal, wood, or plastic.
He used a spike to secure the tent to the ground.
Lace
The craft of creating lace fabric by hand or machine.
Lace making is a time-honored tradition in her family.
Spike
A device used for piercing or fastening.
The carpenter used a spike to join the beams.
Lace
A pattern or motif created in a lace-like manner.
The lace design on the invitation added a touch of elegance.
Spike
Projections on the sole of a shoe for grip.
The runner's spikes gave him better traction on the track.
Lace
The application of lace in fashion and interior decoration.
Lace curtains transformed the room, giving it a quaint look.
Spike
To drive or thrust a spike into something.
She spiked the volleyball over the net with great force.
Lace
Lace is a delicate fabric made of yarn or thread in an open weblike pattern, made by machine or by hand. Generally, lace is divided into two main categories, needlelace and bobbin lace.
Spike
A long, thick, sharp-pointed piece of wood or metal.
Lace
A cord or ribbon used to draw and tie together two opposite edges, as of a shoe.
Spike
A heavy nail.
Lace
A delicate fabric made of yarn or thread in an open weblike pattern. Also called lacework.
Spike
A sharp-pointed projection along the top of a fence or wall.
Lace
Gold or silver braid ornamenting an officer's uniform.
Spike
A thin, sharp-pointed vertical rod for impaling papers; a spindle.
Lace
To thread a cord through the eyelets or around the hooks of.
Spike
An elongate unbranched inflorescence with sessile flowers.
Lace
To draw together and tie the laces of.
Spike
A thorn or spine.
Lace
To restrain or constrict by tightening laces, especially of a corset.
Spike
A tuft of hair that is stiffened, as with hair spray or soap, into a point.
Lace
To pull or pass through; intertwine
Lace garlands through a trellis.
Spike
(Slang) A hypodermic needle.
Lace
To trim or decorate with or as if with lace.
Spike
One of several sharp metal projections set in the sole or in the sole and heel of an athletic shoe for grip.
Lace
To add a touch of flavor to
"today's chefs love to lace their goods with lively, pronounced flavors" (David Rosengarten).
Spike
Spikes A pair of athletic shoes having such projections.
Lace
To add a substance, especially an intoxicant or narcotic, to
Laced the eggnog with rum and brandy.
Spike
Spikes A pair of spike heels.
Lace
To add or intersperse with something in order to produce a certain effect
"Quacks now lace their pitch with scientific terms that may sound authentic to the uninformed" (Jane E. Brody).
Spike
An unbranched antler of a young deer.
Lace
To streak with color.
Spike
A young mackerel of small size, usually 15 centimeters (6 inches) or less in length.
Lace
To give a beating to; thrash
Laced his opponent in the second round.
Spike
A sharp rise followed by a sharp decline in a graph or in the tracing of a scientific instrument.
Lace
To be fastened or tied with laces or a lace.
Spike
A sharp momentary increase in voltage or electric current.
Lace
(uncountable) A light fabric containing patterns of holes, usually built up from a single thread. Wp
Spike
A sudden steep increase in prices.
Lace
(countable) A cord or ribbon passed through eyelets in a shoe or garment, pulled tight and tied to fasten the shoe or garment firmly. Wp
Your laces are untied, do them up!
Spike
(Sports) The act of driving a volleyball at a sharp angle into the opponent's court by jumping near the net and hitting the ball down hard from above.
Lace
A snare or gin, especially one made of interwoven cords; a net.
Spike
(Football) The act of slamming the ball to the ground after succeeding in an important play, as after scoring a touchdown.
Lace
Spirits added to coffee or another beverage.
Spike
(Football) The act of deliberately throwing the ball to the ground as an incomplete pass in order to stop the game clock.
Lace
(ergative) To fasten (something) with laces.
Spike
An ear of grain, as of wheat.
Lace
(transitive) To add alcohol, poison, a drug or anything else potentially harmful to (food or drink).
Spike
(Botany) A usually elongated, unbranched inflorescence with stalkless flowers arranged along an axis.
Lace
(transitive) To interweave items.
To lace one's fingers together
Spike
To secure or provide with a spike.
Lace
(transitive) To interweave the spokes of a bicycle wheel.
Spike
To shape into spikes.
Lace
(transitive) To beat; to lash; to make stripes on.
Spike
To impale, pierce, or injure with a spike.
Lace
(transitive) To adorn with narrow strips or braids of some decorative material.
Cloth laced with silver
Spike
To injure with spiked shoes, especially when sliding in baseball.
Lace
That which binds or holds, especially by being interwoven; a string, cord, or band, usually one passing through eyelet or other holes, and used in drawing and holding together parts of a garment, of a shoe, of a machine belt, etc.
His hat hung at his back down by a lace.
For striving more, the more in laces strongHimself he tied.
Spike
To put an end to; terminate
Spike a rumor.
Lace
A snare or gin, especially one made of interwoven cords; a net.
Vulcanus had caught thee [Venus] in his lace.
Spike
To add alcoholic liquor to
Spiked the punch with rum.
Lace
A fabric of fine threads of linen, silk, cotton, etc., often ornamented with figures; a delicate tissue of thread, much worn as an ornament of dress.
Our English dames are much given to the wearing of costly laces.
Spike
To add a poison or other chemical to
A drink spiked with barbiturates.
Lace
Spirits added to coffee or some other beverage.
Spike
To add flavor or spice to
"Miss Jane brought him ... cold spring water spiked with a dash of vinegar and a touch of molasses" (Howard Frank Mosher).
Lace
To fasten with a lace; to draw together with a lace passed through eyelet holes; to unite with a lace or laces, or, figuratively. with anything resembling laces.
When Jenny's stays are newly laced.
Spike
To add excitement or vitality to
Spiked the speech with many jokes.
Lace
To adorn with narrow strips or braids of some decorative material; as, cloth laced with silver.
Spike
(Sports) To hit (a volleyball) in a spike.
Lace
To beat; to lash; to make stripes on.
I'll lace your coat for ye.
Spike
(Football) To throw (the ball) to the ground in a spike.
Lace
To add something to (a food or beverage) so as to impart flavor, pungency, or some special quality; as, to lace a punch with alcohol; to lace the Kool-Aid with LSD.
Spike
To render (a muzzleloading gun) useless by driving a spike into the vent.
Lace
To twine or draw as a lace; to interlace; to intertwine.
The Gond . . . picked up a trail of the Karela, the vine that bears the bitter wild gourd, and laced it to and fro across the temple door.
Spike
To manifest or undergo a sudden increase in (something) followed by a sharp decrease
Spike a high fever.
Lace
To be fastened with a lace, or laces; as, these boots lace.
Spike
To manifest or undergo a sudden increase followed by a sharp decrease
Traffic to the website spiked after the scandal broke.
Lace
A cord that is drawn through eyelets or around hooks in order to draw together two edges (as of a shoe or garment)
Spike
A sort of very large nail.
Lace
A delicate decorative fabric woven in an open web of symmetrical patterns
Spike
A piece of pointed metal etc. set with points upward or outward.
The trap was lined with spikes.
Lace
Spin or twist together so as to form a cord;
Intertwine the ribbons
Twine the threads into a rope
Spike
(by extension) Anything resembling such a nail in shape.
Lace
Make by braiding or interlacing;
Lace a tablecloth
Spike
An ear of corn or grain.
Lace
Do lacework;
The Flemish women were lacing in front of the cathedral
Spike
(botany) A kind of inflorescence in which sessile flowers are arranged on an unbranched elongated axis.
Lace
Draw through eyes or holes;
Lace the shoelaces
Spike
A running shoe with spikes in the sole to provide grip.
Lace
Add alcohol beverages
Spike
A sharp peak in a graph.
Spike
A surge in power or in the price of a commodity, etc.; any sudden and brief change that would be represented by a sharp peak on a graph.
Spike
The rod-like protrusion from a woman's high-heeled shoe that elevates the heel.
Spike
A long nail for storing papers by skewering them; (by extension) the metaphorical place where rejected newspaper articles are sent.
Spike
(volleyball) An attack from, usually, above the height of the net performed with the intent to send the ball straight to the floor of the opponent or off the hands of the opposing block.
Spike
(zoology) An adolescent male deer.
Spike
The casual ward of a workhouse.
Spike
Spike lavender.
Oil of spike
Spike
Synonym of endpin.
Spike
(theater) A mark indicating where a prop or other item should be placed on stage.
Spike
A small project that uses the simplest possible program to explore potential solutions.
Spike
To fasten with spikes, or long, large nails.
To spike down planks
Spike
To set or furnish with spikes.
Spike
To embed nails into (a tree) so that any attempt to cut it down will damage equipment or injure people.
Spike
To fix on a spike.
Spike
To discard; to decide not to publish or make public.
Spike
To increase sharply.
Traffic accidents spiked in December when there was ice on the roads.
Spike
To covertly put alcohol or another intoxicating substance into a drink.
She spiked my lemonade with vodka!
Spike
To add a small amount of one substance to another.
The water sample to be tested has been spiked with arsenic, antimony, mercury, and lead in quantities commonly found in industrial effluents.
Spike
(volleyball) To attack from, usually, above the height of the net with the intent to send the ball straight to the floor of the opponent or off the hands of the opposing block.
Spike
(military) To render (a gun) unusable by driving a metal spike into its touch hole.
Spike
To slam the football to the ground, usually in celebration of scoring a touchdown, or to stop expiring time on the game clock after snapping the ball as to save time for the losing team to attempt to score the tying or winning points.
To spike the football
Spike
(slang) To inject a drug with a syringe.
Spike
A sort of very large nail; also, a piece of pointed iron set with points upward or outward.
Spike
Anything resembling such a nail in shape.
He wears on his head the corona radiata . . . ; the spikes that shoot out represent the rays of the sun.
Spike
An ear of corn or grain.
Spike
A kind of flower cluster in which sessile flowers are arranged on an unbranched elongated axis.
Spike
Spike lavender. See Lavender.
Spike
To fasten with spikes, or long, large nails; as, to spike down planks.
Spike
To set or furnish with spikes.
Spike
To fix on a spike.
Spike
To stop the vent of (a gun or cannon) by driving a spike nail, or the like into it.
Spike
A transient variation in voltage or current
Spike
Sports equipment consisting of a sharp point on the sole of a shoe worn by athletes;
Spikes provide greater traction
Spike
Fruiting spike of a cereal plant especially corn
Spike
(botany) an indeterminate inflorescence bearing sessile flowers on an unbranched axis
Spike
A sharp rise followed by a sharp decline;
The seismograph showed a sharp spike in response to the temblor
Spike
A sharp-pointed projection along the top of a fence or wall
Spike
A long sharp-pointed implement (wood or metal)
Spike
Any holding device consisting of a long sharp-pointed object
Spike
A long metal nail
Spike
Stand in the way of
Spike
Pierce with a sharp stake or point;
Impale a shrimp on a skewer
Spike
Secure with spikes
Spike
Bring forth a spike or spikes;
My hyacinths and orchids are spiking now
Spike
Add alcohol beverages
Spike
Manifest a sharp increase;
The voltage spiked
Common Curiosities
How is lace used in clothing?
Lace is used as a decorative element on garments, such as dresses, blouses, and lingerie.
Is spike a verb?
Yes, "spike" can be used as a verb meaning to secure with a spike or to cause a sharp increase.
What are the different types of spikes?
Spikes can be classified based on their use, such as for sports, construction, or as part of tools.
Can lace be used for practical purposes?
While primarily decorative, lace can also serve practical purposes like providing ventilation in clothing.
Are spikes only used in sports?
No, spikes are used in various fields, including construction, gardening, and in certain tools.
What is lace made of?
Lace is typically made of cotton, silk, synthetic fibers, or a combination thereof.
What makes a spike effective in sports?
The sharpness and length of a spike can enhance grip and stability, improving athletic performance.
How does the texture of lace compare to that of a spike?
Lace is delicate and soft, while spikes are hard and sharp, reflecting their different uses and properties.
What historical significance does lace have?
Lace has been a symbol of luxury and status since its development in the 15th century.
What is a lace pattern?
A lace pattern refers to the intricate designs created within the lace fabric.
Do all spikes have sharp points?
Most spikes are designed to be sharp for effective penetration or grip, but some may be blunt for specific uses.
How do you care for lace items?
Lace items should be handled gently, often hand-washed or dry-cleaned depending on the fiber content.
Can lace be machine-made?
Yes, lace can be produced by both hand and machine methods, with machine-made lace being more common today.
What is the significance of lace in weddings?
Lace is often associated with weddings for its elegance and has been a traditional choice for wedding gowns.
Can both lace and spikes be decorative?
While lace is inherently decorative, spikes can also serve decorative purposes, especially in fashion and art.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
