IRKSOME Synonyms: 59 Similar and Opposite Words

irksome

adjective

ˈərk-səm

Definition of irksome

as in annoying

causing annoyance the irksome habit of leaving all the kitchen cabinet doors open

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of irksome The prophecy remains at the center of my critique of this series, if not its biggest problem, then at least one of its most irksome. — Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026 But nothing has been more irksome to residents than the massive overcrowding, the Times reported. — Teresa Mull, FOXNews.com, 25 July 2026 For long-time Fitbit users, the loss of features like blood pressure tracking or custom meal creation will be irksome. — ArsTechnica, 5 June 2026 Few things are going right for the 2026 Red Sox, but Wong’s almost-goner ranks among the most irksome grievances. — Gabrielle Starr, Boston Herald, 30 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for irksome

Recent Examples of Synonyms for irksome

Adjective

After five years in development at Retro Studios, the original makers of the Metroid Prime series, fans were greeted with annoying side characters, a bike for Samus to roam the barren landscape on, and a deeply unsatisfying ending.

— Daryl Baxter, Space.com, 1 Nov. 2026
The truth, and its handling, hangs over the show, which must be annoying for those involved, and simultaneously is why many people bought tickets.

— Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 30 Oct. 2026

Definition of annoying

Adjective

The result can be a frustrating cycle in which borrowers repeatedly pay down balances only to rebuild them when another expense arises.

— Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 28 Oct. 2026
And the amount that show business and comedy have changed — the strikes and mergers and COVID and the rest of it — has been really frustrating.

— Daniel D'Addario, Variety, 28 Oct. 2026

Definition of frustrating

Adjective

Mature skin should be treated with a mild, non-irritating cleanser that won’t strip the skin of its natural oils or irritate dry and sensitive types.

— Lauren Valenti, Vogue, 29 Oct. 2026
The cold temperature will slow down the enzymes and ease the irritating effects.

— Martha Stewart, Martha Stewart, 12 Oct. 2026

Definition of irritating

Adjective

One of the most disturbing reasons given was that the DOT will never install a speed reducer closer than a distance of 1,000 feet (nearly a quarter of a mile) from a speed camera.

— Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 28 Oct. 2026
Family members reported objects disappearing, beds lifting, unexplained odors, and other disturbing occurrences in the house.

— Frannie Comstock, Encyclopedia Britannica, 28 Oct. 2026

Definition of disturbing

Browse Nearby Words

irks

irksome

iron

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Style

“Irksome.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/irksome. Accessed 2 Nov. 2026.

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Synonyms of irksome

adjective

Example Sentences

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