plural pests
1
: an animal or insect that causes problems for people especially by damaging crops
These insects/birds are pests for farmers.
agricultural/garden pests
mice and other household pests
—often used before another nounpest control/management
2
informal
: a person who bothers or annoys other people
You're being a real pest. Would you leave us alone, please?
Cite this Entry
“Pest.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/pest. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
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