vexing

English

Etymology

From Middle English vexynge (“harassment”); equivalent to vex +‎ -ing.

Verb

vexing

1. present participle and gerund of vex

Adjective

vexing (comparative more vexing, superlative most vexing)

1. Causing annoyance or pain; irritating.

Derived terms

• most vexing parse
• vexingly
• vexingness

 

Noun

vexing (plural vexings)

1. vexation
   • 2002, Harold Bloom, American Women Poets, 1650-1950:

     Many unkindnesses as well as (one feels) many liberties and general vexings, were required to move her to this.

Middle English

Noun

vexing

1. Alternative form of vexynge