August 22, 2026
nettlesome
[net-l-suhm]
adjective: causing irritation, vexation, or distress
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A nettlesome issue is irritating enough to bother you, but it's usually not a truly serious problem. The word is related to the stinging nettle, a plant whose leaves cause an unpleasant and sometimes lingering prickling sensation when touched. A squeaky cabinet hinge can become surprisingly nettlesome once it starts getting under your skin. |
Example: The nettlesome mosquitoes buzzed around our ears, keeping us from falling asleep.
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