vexing

adjective

vex·​ing ˈvek-siŋ How to pronounce vexing (audio)
Synonyms of vexingnext
: causing or likely to cause vexation : vexatious
a vexing problem
vexingly adverb

Examples of vexing in a Sentence

the constantly changing schedule was somewhat vexing, but I coped
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 most recent one, starting in November 2022, saw Iger confronting vexing issues like AI, labor unrest and the need to lay off thousands of workers amid sweeping industry consolidation. Dade Hayes, Deadline, 18 Mar. 2026 The crumbling support columns are so weak a subcontractor quit trying to repair them because the work was so dangerous, vexing architects and engineers when their poor condition was first uncovered last fall. Richard Mize, Oklahoman, 27 Feb. 2026 That total is just one shy of the number of homicides recorded by this time in 2025, a year in which officials noted a vexing increase in homicides despite a substantial decline in other crime. Steven Martinez, jsonline.com, 16 Feb. 2026 What is Congress doing to create a solution to this vexing, complex problem? Chicago Tribune, 9 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for vexing

Word History

First Known Use

1569, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vexing was in 1569

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Vexing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vexing. Accessed 24 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

vexing

adjective
: causing or likely to cause vexation : vexatious
a vexing problem

More from Merriam-Webster on vexing

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster