Definition

A person who persistently asks for something, often in a way that is annoying or bothersome.

Example

The importuner kept asking for donations even after being told no.

Conversation

Have you ever dealt with an importuner in the park?

Yeah, it's so annoying when they won't take no for an answer.

I had one approach me yesterday, asking for money repeatedly.

That's the worst! Sometimes it's hard to just walk away.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Importuner is derived from the Old French 'importuner', which means to trouble or annoy, and is based on the Latin 'importunus', meaning unfit or inconvenient. The Latin root is formed from 'in-' (meaning not) and 'portunus' (meaning suitable or fit). Thus, the word 'importuner' refers to someone who is troublesome or annoying, often by persistently asking for something.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'not suitable' ('in-' means not and 'portunus' means fit) for a situation because they are being bothersome or annoying.

Visually Confused Words