Definitions of spike:

• noun:   sports equipment consisting of a sharp point on the sole of a shoe worn by athletes

  Example: "Spikes provide greater traction"

• noun:   a long metal nail
• noun:   any holding device consisting of a long sharp-pointed object
• noun:   a long sharp-pointed implement (wood or metal)
• noun:   a sharp-pointed projection along the top of a fence or wall
• noun:   a transient variation in voltage or current
• noun:   a sharp rise followed by a sharp decline

  Example: "The seismograph showed a sharp spike in response to the temblor"

• noun:   (botany) an indeterminate inflorescence bearing sessile flowers on an unbranched axis
• noun:   fruiting spike of a cereal plant especially corn
• verb:   add alcohol beverages
• verb:   stand in the way of
• verb:   bring forth a spike or spikes
• verb:   secure with spikes
• verb:   manifest a sharp increase

  Example: "The voltage spiked"

• verb:   pierce with a sharp stake or point
• name:  A surname (very rare: popularity rank in the U.S.: #54099)