irk

[urk]

verb (used with object)

1. to irritate, annoy, or exasperate.

   It irked him to wait in line.

   Synonyms: tire, bother, fret, chafe

irk

/ ɜːk /

verb

1. (tr) to irritate, vex, or annoy

Word History and Origins

Origin of irk¹

1300–50; Middle English irken to grow tired, tire < Old Norse yrkja to work, cognate with Old English wyrcan; work

Word History and Origins

Origin of irk¹

C13 irken to grow weary; probably related to Old Norse yrkja to work

Example Sentences

Clearly, this decision was designed to irk them rather than serve Bad Bunny’s millions and millions of fans.

From Los Angeles Times

The boisterous buzz makes it an essential part of the day for fans, who arrive in morning darkness to stake their spot, while latecomers, irked at missing out, slope off down the fairway.

From BBC

If they don't, then expect disgruntled supporters, irked by the club's lack of business so far, to make their thoughts heard.

From BBC

There is something about this England team that particularly irks the Australians.

From BBC

Offensive lineman Jordan Mailata told reporters it irks him to hear the team described as the “defending champions.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• annoy 
• bother 
• disturb 
• gall 
• inconvenience 
• irritate 
• peeve 
• provoke 
• rile 
• vex