The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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annoy

verb

/əˈnɔɪ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of annoy

To cause mild to moderate irritation, frustration, or disturbance to someone.
"His persistent questions began to annoy the teacher during the class."

Detailed meaning of annoy

It involves provoking a sense of annoyance or exasperation, often through repetitive or bothersome actions, behaviors, or circumstances. This could include making loud noises, interrupting conversations, or engaging in persistent, unwanted behavior. Secondly, 'annoy' can signify the act of inconveniencing or inconveniencing oneself or others, typically unintentionally. It represents actions or situations that may create inconvenience, bother, or hassle for individuals or disrupt the smooth flow of events. Lastly, 'annoy' can describe the act of intentionally provoking or deliberately antagonizing someone to irritate or anger them. It involves purposeful actions or behaviors aimed at getting under someone's skin or causing them to react negatively. Overall, 'annoy' encompasses the notions of irritation, inconvenience, and intentional provocation.

Example sentences containing annoy

1. Please don't annoy your sister; she's trying to study.
2. Loud chewing sounds can annoy people in a quiet environment.
3. If you constantly interrupt, it might annoy your colleagues during the meeting.
4. The incessant barking of the dog will certainly annoy the neighbors.
5. If you play loud music late at night, it will annoy the people living next door.
6. Texting during dinner might annoy the people you are dining with.

History and etymology of annoy

The verb 'annoy' has its etymological origins in the Old French word 'anoier,' which is derived from the Latin 'inodiare.' In Latin, 'inodiare' consists of 'in-' (meaning 'not') and 'odiare' (meaning 'to hate'). Therefore, 'annoys' etymology suggests the notion of causing mild to moderate irritation, frustration, or disturbance to someone, to the point where it might not necessarily provoke hatred, but it certainly stirs negative feelings. The word 'annoy' captures the idea of actions or behaviors that grate on one's nerves or test one's patience, emphasizing the discomfort or vexation that it can induce without necessarily reaching the level of intense hatred or anger.

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Further usage examples of annoy

1. Do not annoy your teacher with irrelevant questions.
2. Teasing him about his fear of heights will only annoy him.
3. Inconsistent internet connectivity can annoy users, causing them to switch providers.
4. Playing pranks will annoy your coworkers and disrupt their focus.
5. Showing up late for appointments will annoy your friends and acquaintances.
6. Being overly critical might annoy your partner and cause arguments.
7. Unsolicited advice often does more to annoy than help.
8. Flashy pop-up ads will annoy your website visitors.
9. Don't let minor setbacks annoy you; stay focused on your goal.
10. Rude behavior in public places will definitely annoy others.
11. Procrastinating on tasks can annoy your team and delay the project.
12. Talking loudly on your phone in public spaces can annoy those around you.
13. Not respecting personal space might annoy people in crowded places.
14. Forgetting to mute during online meetings will annoy other participants.