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Meaning of vex in English

  1. Pronunciation

    /vɛks/

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  1. Verb

    vex

    Etymology

    late Middle English: from Old French vexer, from Latin vexare‘shake, disturb’

    Definitions

    1. cause annoyance in

    Examples

    • « disturb, especially by minor irritations »
    • « Mosquitoes buzzing in my ear really bothers me »
    • « It irritates me that she never closes the door after she leaves »
  2. 2. disturb the peace of mind of

    Examples

    • « afflict with mental agitation or distress »
    • « I cannot sleep--my daughter's health is worrying me »

    Antonyms

    • reassure
    • assure
  3. 3. change the arrangement or position of
  4. 4. subject to prolonged examination, discussion, or deliberation

    Examples

    • « vex the subject of the death penalty »
  5. 5. be a mystery or bewildering to

    Examples

    • « This beats me! »
    • « Got me--I don't know the answer! »
    • « a vexing problem »
    • « This question really stuck me »

See also

  • puzzle over
  • solve

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