vexing

adjective

vex·​ing ˈvek-siŋ How to pronounce vexing (audio)
: causing or likely to cause vexation : vexatious
a vexing problem
vexingly adverb

Examples of vexing in a Sentence

the constantly changing schedule was somewhat vexing, but I coped
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
One of its most intriguing, yet vexing, implications is that if all matter and forces are composed of vibrations of tiny strands, then this allows for a vast landscape of possible universes with different physical properties, varieties of particles and complex space-times. Steven Strogatz, Quanta Magazine, 29 May 2025 Our recipe for success is simple and proven: the federal government invests in research, and universities contribute their workforce, time, space, expertise, and interests to deliver solutions to the most vexing challenges of society. Charles L. Welch, Forbes.com, 9 May 2025 Khan went on for a minute about a vexing old record deal then seemed wisely to think better of that. Mikael Wood, Los Angeles Times, 12 May 2025 The height of the Soviet-era cruise missile threat was quite remarkable, but Beijing's ability to layer in many types of anti-ship weapons, including anti-ship ballistic missiles of various types, especially those with very-long range, is a uniquely vexing problem. Ryan Chan, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for vexing

Word History

First Known Use

1569, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vexing was in 1569

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Vexing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vexing. Accessed 7 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

vexing

adjective
: causing or likely to cause vexation : vexatious
a vexing problem

More from Merriam-Webster on vexing

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