troublesome

adjective

trou·​ble·​some ˈtrə-bəl-səm How to pronounce troublesome (audio)
Synonyms of troublesomenext
1
: difficult, burdensome
a troublesome neighbor
2
: giving trouble or anxiety : vexatious
troublesome news
troublesomely adverb
troublesomeness noun

Examples of troublesome in a Sentence

the troublesome news that there will be more cuts in the school budget
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.
My problem is that starting line, the search process, seems to the most troublesome part of this journey for Miami. Miami Herald, 23 Dec. 2025 Diggs' return could have something to do with the season-ending move to IR for cornerback DaRon Bland, who may need his second surgery in two seasons for a troublesome left foot. CBS News, 22 Dec. 2025 Over the years, stories of lawlessness on cruises have both captivated and horrified travelers, with experts often pointing out how the unique environment often serves as a hotbed for bad actors and troublesome events. Julia Bonavita, FOXNews.com, 20 Dec. 2025 Just like squash plants, melons can be targeted by destructive squash bugs and cucumber beetles, but using them as marigold companion plants can deter these troublesome pests. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for troublesome

Word History

First Known Use

1542, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of troublesome was in 1542

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Troublesome.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/troublesome. Accessed 24 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

troublesome

adjective
trou·​ble·​some ˈtrəb-əl-səm How to pronounce troublesome (audio)
1
: requiring or involving continued or tiring effort, attention, or study : difficult, burdensome
a troublesome task
2
: giving trouble or anxiety
troublesome news
troublesomely adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on troublesome

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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