What is the difference between prickles and thorns?

Prickles and thorns are both types of plant structures that serve as defenses against herbivores, but they differ in their origin and structure. Prickles are outgrowths of the epidermis or outer layers of the plant, like those found on rose stems. Thorns, on the other hand, are modified branches or stems that can be found in plants like hawthorn. Essentially, prickles are superficial, while thorns are more deeply embedded in the plant's structure.