galling

[gaw-ling]

adjective

1. that galls; chafing; irritating; vexing.

   Synonyms: provoking, annoying

galling

/ ˈɡɔːlɪŋ /

adjective

1. irritating, exasperating, or bitterly humiliating

2. obsolete,  rubbing painfully; chafing

Other Word Forms

• gallingly adverb
• gallingness noun
• ungalling adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of galling¹

First recorded in 1640–50; gall ² + -ing ²

Example Sentences

As well as the shortened format and convenient scheduling, there is also a lucrative prize pot - something that has been particularly galling for the doubles specialists who are missing out.

From BBC

While Zora and Henry get the chance to debate the merits of their work along the way, Koepp’s screenplay gallingly diverts attention to a far less charming parallel storyline just when things are getting good.

From Salon

It was galling for Mr Varvill "because we were turning it around with an improved engine. Just as we were getting close to succeeding we failed. That's a uniquely British characteristic."

From BBC

The timing of the announcement was particularly galling for some.

From Los Angeles Times

Fans bang on about loyalty this, loyalty that - the rank hypocrisy is galling.

From BBC