pricker

n. 1. One who, or that which, pricks; a pointed instrument; a sharp point; a prickle. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. One who spurs forward; a light horseman. [ 1913 Webster ]

The prickers, who rode foremost, . . . halted. Sir W. Scott. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. A priming wire; a priming needle, -- used in blasting and gunnery. Knight. [ 1913 Webster ]

4. (Naut.) A small marline spike having generally a wooden handle, -- used in sailmaking. R. H. Dana, Ir. [ 1913 Webster ]