Synonyms of abrasive

abrasive

adjective

ə-ˈbrā-siv 

as in annoying

causing annoyance

an abrasive display of rude behavior

Synonyms & Similar Words

• annoying
• irritating
• frustrating
• disturbing
• aggravating
• exasperating
• irksome
• maddening
• vexatious
• painful
• bothersome
• vexing
• nettlesome
• pestilential
• rebarbative
• pestiferous
• pesky
• distractive
• galling
• nettling
• pesty
• pestilent
• chafing
• peeving
• riling
• stressful
• biting
• carking
• plaguey
• rankling
• infuriating
• troublesome
• mischievous
• offensive
• burdensome
• displeasing
• troubling
• importunate
• upsetting
• discomforting
• disquieting
• distressing
• tiresome
• enraging
• brattish
• bratty
• grating
• jarring
• angering
• spiny
• inconveniencing
• worrisome
• trying
• thorny
• importune
• jangling

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• delightful
• pleasing

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of abrasive

There’s talk amongst the crowd about the album, but nothing as loud or abrasive as the chatter happening online about everything from her album cover to her single choices to her strong, vocal opinions about her album cover and single choices. — Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 19 Sep. 2026

However, the wear patterns on the teeth were consistent with sucking — not chewing — hard, round abrasive objects over many years, Brumm says. — Pien Huang, NPR, 19 Sep. 2026

Known for his abrasive-yet-glossy futurism equally as much as his ear for house-pop heaters, there have been co-writes with Madonna and a wealth of British dance supernovas (Becky Hill, Joel Corry). — Sophie Williams, Billboard, 18 Sep. 2026

However, harsh cleaners, abrasive tools, and excess moisture can damage their finish or markings. — Jamie Cuccinelli, Martha Stewart, 17 Sep. 2026

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