annoy

word

/əˈnɔɪ/
uh-NOY
/ɐnˈɔɪ/
uh-NOY

Definition

To make someone slightly angry or irritated, usually through repeated or persistent behavior.

Usage & Nuances

Milder than "anger" or "infuriate." "Annoying" (adjective) is very common in everyday speech. "Annoyed" = the feeling, "annoying" = the cause. "Pet peeve" is something that specifically annoys you. Often used with "at" or "by" ("annoyed at/by").

Example Sentences

It annoys me when people talk during movies.

basic

My little brother loves to annoy me.

basic

What annoys me most about the app is the constant notifications.

natural

I don't want to annoy you, but could you turn down the music a bit?

natural

She was visibly annoyed when the flight was delayed for the third time.

natural

Stop making that noise — it's starting to annoy me.

basic