annoyance

noun

an·​noy·​ance ə-ˈnȯi-ən(t)s 

1

: the act of annoying someone or of being annoyed

2

: the state or feeling of being annoyed : vexation

She couldn't hide her annoyance.

3

: a source of vexation or irritation : nuisance

The delay was a minor annoyance.

Synonyms

• aggravation
• bedevilment
• botheration
• bothering
• bugging
• disturbance
• harassment
• harrying
• importunity
• pestering
• teasing
• vexation

Examples of annoyance in a Sentence

She expressed annoyance at the slow service.

they have an unlisted number in the hopes that it will reduce the constant annoyance by telemarketers

Recent Examples on the Web

Even many non-conservatives believe Newsom seems to treat the governor’s job as an annoyance that gets in the way of more important business. —Steven Greenhut, Orange County Register, 16 Mar. 2025

In a 2023 survey of more than 1,500 travelers by Only Wanderlust, chatty seat neighbors were identified as a top 20 airplane annoyance. —Zach Wichter, USA TODAY, 12 Mar. 2025

Like all married couples, George and Kathryn have their things, those little daily annoyances, the occasional doubt about what the other may be thinking, or doing, in their private hours. —Stephanie Zacharek, TIME, 6 Mar. 2025

In Javier Mascherano’s first MLS game on the sidelines, the new Miami head coach repeatedly expressed his annoyance with referee Alexis Da Silva, as did Messi and Busquets. —Martin Rogers, The Athletic, 22 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing annoyance

• in annoyance
• to one's annoyance

Rhymes for annoyance

• clairvoyance

Kids Definition

annoyance

noun

an·​noy·​ance ə-ˈnȯi-ən(t)s 

1

a

: the act of annoying

b

: the feeling of being annoyed

2

: a source of annoyance : nuisance