pesky

adjective

pes·​ky ˈpe-skē How to pronounce pesky (audio)
peskier; peskiest
: troublesome, vexatious
pesky issues

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Like cockroaches, mosquitoes, and other pesky insects, the migraine has a distinct life cycle. Catharine Kaufman, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Apr. 2025 If all goes according to plan, future low-Earth orbit space stations could feature their inflatable LIFE habitats shielded from any pesky cosmic debris. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 24 Apr. 2025 The odds will increase if Putin can secure a one-on-one summit with Trump, away from any pesky, pro-Ukrainian intermediaries. Alexander Gabuev, Foreign Affairs, 26 Mar. 2025 These pesky rodents are taking over Britain’s second-biggest city after garbage collectors unhappy with their pay went on strike weeks ago. Daniel Wine, CNN Money, 7 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pesky

Word History

Etymology

probably irregular from pest + -y entry 1

First Known Use

1775, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pesky was in 1775

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pesky.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pesky. Accessed 4 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

pesky

adjective
pes·​ky ˈpes-kē How to pronounce pesky (audio)
peskier; peskiest
peskily
-kə-lē
adverb
peskiness
-kē-nəs
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on pesky

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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