Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Synonyms

bothersome

American  
[both-er-suhm] / ˈbɒð ər səm /

adjective

  1. causing annoyance or worry; troublesome.

    Synonyms:
    galling, vexatious, irksome, irritating, annoying

bothersome British  
/ ˈbɒðəsəm /

adjective

  1. causing bother; troublesome

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of bothersome

First recorded in 1825–35; bother + -some 1

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Not a day goes by that I don’t read a headline that trumpets the shortage of estrogen patches, which are used to treat the bothersome symptoms of perimenopause and menopause.

From MarketWatch • May 12, 2026

The Briton has also switched to a platform serve, meaning he stands with his feet slightly wider to allow a smoother transfer of weight, in an attempt to alleviate pressure on the bothersome bruised humerus.

From BBC • Feb. 25, 2026

Still, it’s bothersome that a world-famous abuser was among the cohort who’ve been misreading and misrepresenting Nabokov’s “love affair with the English language” since its release.

From Salon • Dec. 18, 2025

His unwavering execution, in seasons he threw 200-plus innings or those in which he battled increasingly persistent injuries to his back, shoulder and even a bothersome left big toe.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 1, 2025

I tried not to think about this, but it tailed me about the house all afternoon like a bothersome, bad-smelling dog demanding attention.

From "The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate" by Jacqueline Kelly

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "bothersome" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com