pesky

adjective

pes·​ky ˈpe-skē How to pronounce pesky (audio)
peskier; peskiest
: troublesome, vexatious
pesky issues

Examples of pesky in a Sentence

I've been trying to get rid of this pesky cold for weeks. the pesky problem of what to do with all the leftovers
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Worried about pesky loose screws in your antique décor? Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 5 Jan. 2025 Of course, this leaves the pesky question of whether Canada would accept America’s West Coast as its 11th province and New York and New England as its 12th? Robert B. Reich, Hartford Courant, 2 Jan. 2025 The real answer though is for Micky van de Ven to avoid any more pesky hamstring injuries which have such a significant impact on how the team performs. Jay Harris, The Athletic, 30 Dec. 2024 It's spiked with enamel-strengthening fluoride, which helps prevent pesky cavities from forming. Annie Blackman, Allure, 27 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for pesky 

Word History

Etymology

probably irregular from pest + -y entry 1

First Known Use

1775, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pesky was in 1775

Dictionary Entries Near pesky

Cite this Entry

“Pesky.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pesky. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

pesky

adjective
pes·​ky ˈpes-kē How to pronounce pesky (audio)
peskier; peskiest
peskily
-kə-lē
adverb
peskiness
-kē-nəs
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on pesky

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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