irksome

/ˈɚksəm/

Group 18Difficulty 1/3

Definition

(adjective)
Irritating; annoying
GRE

Example in Context

The irksome delays caused by the outdated payment system tested the patience of customers and staff members alike.

Synonyms

annoyingirritatingbothersome

Etymology

Something that causes annoyance or irritation.

  • irk (Old Norse) — to annoy

Memory Aid

😤Sounds like “irk some

When I hear someone say 'IRK SOME' people, I imagine them being annoying like a mosquito buzzing in my ear!

Visual Association

🐜A person swatting at a persistent fly that just won't leave them alone, representing irritation.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “irksome” mean on the GRE?

irksome (adjective) means “Irritating; annoying”. The irksome delays caused by the outdated payment system tested the patience of customers and staff members alike.

How to remember “irksome” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “irksome” sounds like “irk some”. When I hear someone say 'IRK SOME' people, I imagine them being annoying like a mosquito buzzing in my ear!

What are synonyms for “irksome”?

Common synonyms: annoying, irritating, bothersome.