pesky

adjective

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

Synonyms of pesky

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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.
Here’s how to discourage pesky possums from hanging around your house and yard. — Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 1 July 2026 Anything, in this new world, can be traded — provided the other team isn’t on one of those pesky no-trade clauses. — James Mirtle, New York Times, 30 June 2026 The first problem for the football-mad nation is the Round of 16 match isn’t taking place on Sunday night due to pesky time zones. — Ben Church, CNN Money, 5 July 2026 Many pantry staples are effective at combating pesky weeds, including baking soda. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 4 July 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

peskiness
pesky
peso
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pesky.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pesky. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

pesky

adjective
pes·​ky ˈpes-kē How to pronounce pesky (audio)
peskier; peskiest
: troublesome sense 2
peskily
-kə-lē
adverb
peskiness
-kē-nəs
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on pesky

Nglish: Translation of pesky for Spanish Speakers

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