pesky

adjective

pes·​ky ˈpe-skē 

peskier; peskiest

: troublesome, vexatious

pesky issues

Synonyms of pesky

• annoying
• frustrating
• irritating

Examples of pesky in a Sentence

I've been trying to get rid of this pesky cold for weeks.

the pesky problem of what to do with all the leftovers

Recent Examples on the Web

Scroll on to learn why this pesky stickiness occurs—and how to get rid of it. — Caroline Lubinsky, Martha Stewart, 31 July 2026

The Yankees are in the midst of a heated American League East Division pennant race with the pesky Tampa Bay Rays. — Bernie Pleskoff, Forbes.com, 30 July 2026

Its eucalyptus wood construction is a major upgrade from stiff plastic alternatives and is resistant to warping, cracking, and pesky mildew. — Better Homes & Gardens, 27 July 2026

There’s always a ready audience, especially when the pesky Jewish state of Israel loudly refuses to join the chorus of condemnation and defends itself with force. — Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 25 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

probably irregular from pest + -y entry 1

First Known Use

1775, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

pesky

adjective

pes·​ky ˈpes-kē 

peskier; peskiest

: troublesome sense 2

peskily

-kə-lē

adverb

peskiness

-kē-nəs

noun