plural nuisances
: a person, thing, or situation that is annoying or that causes trouble or problems
—usually singular
The sticky clay was a nuisance to work with. [=was difficult to work with]
My allergies are a nuisance in the springtime.
Filling out all the paperwork was a nuisance.
I'm sorry to be such a nuisance [=I'm sorry to bother you], but I need your help again.
He made a nuisance of himself. [=he behaved in an annoying way]
(law) The landfill was declared a public nuisance.
Cite this Entry
“Nuisance.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/nuisance. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.
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