1. Referring to physical texture:
* Stiff and prickly: This is the most common meaning. Think of a brush with short, stiff bristles, or the feeling of a hedgehog's quills.
* "The cat's fur was bristly after its bath."
* "The sculptor used a bristly brush to apply the paint."
2. Referring to a person's attitude:
* Hostile or defensive: This meaning implies someone is easily angered, argumentative, or unwilling to cooperate.
* "He gave me a bristly look when I asked about his plans."
* "Her bristly tone suggested she wasn't interested in discussing the issue."
The context of the sentence will usually make it clear which meaning is intended.