Synonyms of pests

pests

noun

plural of pest

1

as in plagues

a widespread disease resulting in a high rate of death

one of the great pests of the 20th century was the influenza epidemic of 1918, which killed millions across the globe

Synonyms & Similar Words

• plagues
• pestilences
• infections
• epidemics
• illnesses
• ailments
• maladies
• sicknesses
• pandemics
• infirmities
• blights
• contagions
• murrains
• afflictions
• scourges
• curses
• affections

2

as in nuisances

one who is obnoxiously annoying

stop being a pest to your sister and go find something else to do

Synonyms & Similar Words

• nuisances
• annoyances
• annoyers
• gadflies
• pains
• teases
• persecutors
• headaches
• bothers
• teasers
• pains in the neck
• gnawers
• plagues
• nudniks
• hecklers
• interrupters
• harriers
• tormentors
• harassers
• torturers
• molesters
• hassles

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• charmers
• smoothies
• comforters
• soothers
• solacers

3

as in headaches

something that is a source of irritation

a never-ending construction project that continues to be a pest for motorists

Synonyms & Similar Words

• headaches
• nuisances
• thorns
• irritants
• worries
• frustrations
• problems
• annoyances
• inconveniences
• hair shirts
• vexations
• bugbears
• aggravations
• menaces
• exasperations
• irks
• rubs
• trials
• peeves
• ruffles
• hassles
• anxieties
• botherations
• discomforts
• insults
• bothers
• plagues
• aggros
• troubles
• curses
• fleabites
• offenders
• burdens
• predicaments
• affronts
• disturbers
• pinpricks
• annoyers
• sores
• upsets
• plights
• tribulations
• offenses
• mischiefs
• albatross
• afflictions
• harassers
• millstones
• hang-ups
• crosses
• pet peeves
• pandora's boxes

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• pleasures
• joys
• delights

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of pests

The bacteria could detect signals associated with drought, pests or disease. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 18 Aug. 2026

At the packing plants, inspections continue, checking quality, the fruit’s flesh and possible pests. — ABC News, 16 Aug. 2026

Often, a tree grows suckers in response to stress from pests, diseases, or damage, or to difficult conditions such as inadequate root space or insufficient water. — Beth Botts, Chicago Tribune, 16 Aug. 2026

These prevention methods are key in keeping all types of pests at bay. — Rae Ford, Martha Stewart, 16 Aug. 2026

These practices weaken roots, encourage pests, or reduce the lawn’s ability to withstand heat. — Lee Wallender, The Spruce, 15 Aug. 2026

There were several holes in the walls where pests could get in, according to the report. — Harriet Ramos, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 Aug. 2026

Mulch also helps suppress weeds and dissuades strawberry pests like slugs. — Michelle Mastro, Architectural Digest, 14 Aug. 2026

Plus, this will make your lawn more susceptible to pests and diseases. — Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Aug. 2026