pesky

[pes-kee]

adjective

Informal.

peskier, peskiest 

1. annoyingly troublesome; pesty.

   bothered by a pesky fly.

   Synonyms: pestiferous, bothersome, irksome, vexatious

pesky

/ ˈpɛskɪ /

adjective

1. informal,  troublesome

   pesky flies

Other Word Forms

• peskily adverb
• peskiness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of pesky¹

1765–75; irregular formation from pest ( def. ) + -y ¹ ( def. )

Word History and Origins

Origin of pesky¹

C19: probably changed from pesty; see _pest

Example Sentences

If the virus spreads further, it can reach your lungs and cause a pesky cough.

From BBC

Except for that pesky detail of history proving that many states, if left to their own devices, will happily codify structural inequities that foment chaos.

From Salon

In 2025, white cabinets and grey floors signify a home with no pesky outré design choices to hinder the viewer’s ability to picture themselves in that kitchen.

From Salon

Those pesky rivals from down south staggered away from their weekend stay at Dodger Stadium Sunday with spirits bruised, egos bloodied and Manny Machado flattened.

From Los Angeles Times

Jennie could be your cool older sister, all dark sunglasses and leather jackets, as she swats away her choreography like a pesky house fly.

From BBC

Related Words

• annoying 
• nettlesome 
• troublesome 
• vexing