nettlesome
Group 8Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Causing annoyance or difficulty GRE
Example in Context
The nettlesome border dispute, unresolved for decades, continued to complicate diplomatic relations between the neighboring states.
Synonyms
annoyingirritatingvexing
Etymology
Having the quality of causing irritation, like nettles.
- nettl- (Old English) — nettle
- -some (Old English) — having the quality of
Memory Aid
🌿Sounds like “nettle some”
Imagine a gardener who NETTLES SOME plants, making everyone complain about the pricks!
Visual Association
😤A group of friends getting poked and irritated by thorny bushes at a picnic!
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “nettlesome” mean on the GRE?
nettlesome (adjective) means “Causing annoyance or difficulty”. The nettlesome border dispute, unresolved for decades, continued to complicate diplomatic relations between the neighboring states.
How to remember “nettlesome” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “nettlesome” sounds like “nettle some”. Imagine a gardener who NETTLES SOME plants, making everyone complain about the pricks!
What are synonyms for “nettlesome”?
Common synonyms: annoying, irritating, vexing.