Definition

Causing annoyance or trouble; bothersome or irritating.

Example

The pesty flies kept buzzing around the picnic.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Have you noticed how pesty the flies have been lately?

Yes, they just won't leave us alone, it's so annoying!

I can't enjoy my meal with those pesty creatures buzzing around.

Right? We should get some citronella candles to keep them away.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pesty → The word 'pesty' originates from the word 'pest' (from Old French *peste*, meaning plague or disease) combined with the suffix '-y' (meaning characterized by). Thus, 'pesty' describes something that is characterized by being annoying or bothersome, akin to a plague.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pest' as something that is bothersome or annoying, and remember that 'pesty' means characterized by being a nuisance.

Visually Confused Words