Pesky

usgb/ˈpeski/
adjective

Annoying or bothersome.

The pesky mosquitoes kept buzzing around my ear.
Visual representation of "pesky" - Annoying or bothersome.

Often appears as...

  • pesky insects
  • pesky problem

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "pesky"
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Informal Usage

Used in casual or humorous conversation, not in formal writing or speech.

Illustration for Informal Usage
That pesky squirrel keeps stealing bird food from the feeder.
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Mild Frustration

Expresses a light, non-threatening type of irritation or nuisance, often with a feeling of exasperation.

Illustration for Mild Frustration
I have to reset my password again? What a pesky task!
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Negative Connotation

While pesky indicates annoyance, it's not used for serious problems, but rather minor inconveniences.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
I'm trying to read with all these pesky notifications popping up.
Visual representation of the word "Pesky"

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