vexing

1 of 2

adjective

vex·​ing ˈvek-siŋ 

: causing or likely to cause vexation : vexatious

a vexing problem

vexingly adverb

vexing

2 of 2

present participle of vex

Synonyms of vexing

Adjective

• frustrating
• annoying
• irritating
• disturbing

Examples of vexing in a Sentence

Adjective

the constantly changing schedule was somewhat vexing, but I coped

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

There’s the recurring omission of pivotal moments — in the last two weeks alone, Mae’s death happens offscreen, as does everyone finding out about it — which is less vexing with tough scenes than joyous ones. — Ben Travers, IndieWire, 7 Oct. 2026

That apathetic approach, which starts off pretty funny, becomes increasingly vexing, especially when the film takes a turn that requires some actual fire from Johnson’s performance. — Richard Lawson, HollywoodReporter, 30 Sep. 2026

The Miami Herald spoke with each of them in the days ahead of the election to discuss their ideas to address a few of Florida’s most vexing problems. — Kairi Lowery, Miami Herald, 19 Aug. 2026

Sticky Glue There is nothing more vexing than the sticky debris leftover from a price tag, label, or a child’s sticker placed randomly around the house. — Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 11 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1569, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for vexing

• flexing
• sexing
• annexing
• complexing
• perplexing
• multiplexing

Kids Definition

vexing

adjective

: causing or likely to cause vexation : vexatious

a vexing problem