annoyance

noun

an·​noy·​ance ə-ˈnȯi-ən(t)s 

1

: the act of annoying someone or of being annoyed

2

: the state or feeling of being annoyed : vexation

She couldn't hide her annoyance.

3

: a source of vexation or irritation : nuisance

The delay was a minor annoyance.

Synonyms of annoyance

• harassment
• disturbance
• bothering

Examples of annoyance in a Sentence

She expressed annoyance at the slow service.

they have an unlisted number in the hopes that it will reduce the constant annoyance by telemarketers

Recent Examples on the Web

Chronic snoring goes beyond annoyance. —Allison Palmer, Sacbee.com, 3 Apr. 2026

Avoid letting a small annoyance slide today. —Usa Today, USA Today, 2 Apr. 2026

What This Means for South Florida’s Outdoor Diners For the millions of residents and visitors who eat outdoors along South Florida’s coast each year, the research reframes a familiar annoyance. —Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 30 Mar. 2026

In order to make sure horses keep their cool among loud, unpredictable crowds, officers do desensitization training with speakers, sirens, inflatable tube men, kazoos, fireworks, flags and all manner of annoyances. —Aj Willingham, AJC.com, 27 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing annoyance

• in annoyance
• to one's annoyance

Rhymes for annoyance

• clairvoyance

Kids Definition

annoyance

noun

an·​noy·​ance ə-ˈnȯi-ən(t)s 

1

a

: the act of annoying

b

: the feeling of being annoyed

2

: a source of annoyance : nuisance