Definition of annoynext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb annoy contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of annoy are harass, harry, pester, plague, tease, and worry. While all these words mean "to disturb or irritate by persistent acts," annoy implies disturbing one's composure or peace of mind by intrusion, interference, or petty attacks.

you're doing that just to annoy me

When could harass be used to replace annoy?

The synonyms harass and annoy are sometimes interchangeable, but harass implies petty persecutions or burdensome demands that exhaust one's nervous or mental power.

harassed on all sides by creditors

Where would harry be a reasonable alternative to annoy?

The words harry and annoy are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, harry may imply heavy oppression or maltreatment.

the strikers had been harried by thugs

When might pester be a better fit than annoy?

While in some cases nearly identical to annoy, pester stresses the repetition of petty attacks.

constantly pestered with trivial complaints

In what contexts can plague take the place of annoy?

While the synonyms plague and annoy are close in meaning, plague implies a painful and persistent affliction.

plagued all her life by poverty

When is tease a more appropriate choice than annoy?

Although the words tease and annoy have much in common, tease suggests an attempt to break down one's resistance or rouse to wrath.

children teased the dog

When can worry be used instead of annoy?

The meanings of worry and annoy largely overlap; however, worry implies an incessant goading or attacking that drives one to desperation.

pursued a policy of worrying the enemy

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of annoy The best traditions should annoy outsiders. Sean Gentille, New York Times, 31 Jan. 2026 That shot visibly annoyed Westbrook, who was in street clothes on Sacramento’s bench. Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 31 Jan. 2026 In particular, you might be concerned or annoyed about financial issues with a friend or a group. Georgia Nicols, Denver Post, 25 Jan. 2026 Here are two habits that often annoy people the most, and reliably signal that a partner is deeply invested in you. Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 24 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for annoy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for annoy
Verb
  • Both add flavor and hydration with minimal calories, but their acidity can irritate acid reflux and tooth enamel.
    Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 6 Feb. 2026
  • Undiluted bleach can leave behind a residue that is toxic to birds and may irritate their eyes and skin.
    Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 5 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Andrew Musgrave crossed the finish line in cross-country skiing today in a tank top, and the cold didn’t seem to bother him one bit.
    Andrew Greif, NBC news, 13 Feb. 2026
  • My damp clothes didn’t bother either one of us.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 13 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Instead, Ladinig says Pierre Haobsh bugged Henry Han's computer with a spyware app called a keylogger.
    Natalie Morales, CBS News, 27 Jan. 2026
  • Harry, along with Elton John, Elizabeth Hurley, Sadie Frost and others, alleges the publisher hired private investigators to bug their cars, obtain personal records and eavesdrop on calls.
    Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 20 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • The Secret Agent’s primary setting is a house full of misfits and refugees in the northeastern city of Recife, a safe harbor from those persecuted by the country’s military regime, ruled over by the inimitable Dona Sebastiana (Tânia Maria, whose role was written specifically for her).
    Nate Jones, Vulture, 6 Feb. 2026
  • His previously peaceful world had been shattered when Vilna was occupied by the German army three months before and soon the Germans began to persecute and arrest Jews.
    Dr. Michael Good, Hartford Courant, 3 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • The consequences of Russian strikes are aggravated in many urban areas by reliance on centralized heating systems, a legacy of the Soviet era.
    Tim Lister, CNN Money, 8 Feb. 2026
  • Kendall Coleman, 28, pleaded guilty Thursday to charges of second-degree assault and aggravated fleeing a stop or detention causing physical injury, according to a guilty plea document filed in Jackson County court.
    Caroline Zimmerman, Kansas City Star, 7 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Annoy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/annoy. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on annoy

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