noun
vexation
vek-SAY-shuhn/vekˈseɪʃn/
A feeling of annoyance or the act of causing it.
The tangled cords cause the woman obvious vexation.
Etymology
Latin vexare moved from physically shaking or jolting people to harassing or troubling them. Vexation names the resulting mental distress or irritation, and also something that causes it.
In context
youth I was that day shown to 12 sets of company and as often forced to act over again the same fopperies till I was half dead with weariness and vexation for those who had seen me
More examples
- To my vexation, the store closes just before I arrive.
- He hides his vexation behind a polite smile.
- The repeated interruptions cause considerable vexation during our meetings.
Forms
vexation · vexations
vex verb — To cause someone annoyance or frustration.
vexatious adjective — Causing annoyance, frustration, or unnecessary trouble.
Similar words
- annoyance
- The more everyday word for the same irritated feeling.
- frustration
- Emphasizes irritation when obstacles prevent progress or success.