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.
The film cost a staggering $400 million, a figure that skyrocketed as Cruise and director Christopher McQuarrie worked against the pandemic, two strikes and and pesky inflation increases, making this one of the most expensive movies of all time. Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 21 May 2025 The Yankees have believed that Vivas can at least be pesky at the plate. Brendan Kuty, New York Times, 19 May 2025 Not only does this bodysuit boast a snap-free design (no pesky snap dilemmas in the loo), it’s also made with the buttery-soft dreamknit fabric. Madison Yauger, People.com, 10 May 2025 Defense hawks on Capitol Hill would rather the Pentagon avoid those pesky, first-order questions. Daniel R. Depetris, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 May 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 28 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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