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Definition of pesky

pesky

/ˈpɛs.ki/
pes · ky
Adverb:peskily
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pesky Lexical Profile

pesky Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Causing trouble or persistent irritation; annoying or bothersome.

Example

"We lit citronella candles on the porch to keep the pesky mosquitoes away."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for pesky

• Nearby Words

peshawar
peskily
peskiness
pesky
peso
pessimism
pessimist

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the late 18th century in New England, 'pesky' is likely an alteration of 'pesty' (from 'pest', ultimately from Latin 'pestis' meaning 'plague'), combined with the adjective suffix '-y'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Pesky. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/pesky
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