Meaning of vex in English

Table of contents

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 »
Derived terms
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
Derived terms
3. change the arrangement or position of
4. subject to prolonged examination, discussion, or deliberation
Examples
- « vex the subject of the death penalty »
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 »
Derived terms

Pronunciation