First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
vex
verb \ˈveks\
: to annoy or worry (someone)
vexed also vextvex·ing
Full Definition of VEX
transitive verb
1
2
: to shake or toss about
See vex defined for English-language learners
See vex defined for kids
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Origin of VEX
Middle English, from Anglo-French vexer, from Latin vexare to agitate, harry; probably akin to Latin vehere to convey — more at way
Related to VEX
Synonym Discussion of VEX
annoy, vex, irk, bother mean to upset a person's composure. annoy implies a wearing on the nerves by persistent petty unpleasantness <their constant complaining annoys us>. vex implies greater provocation and stronger disturbance and usually connotes anger but sometimes perplexity or anxiety <vexed by her son's failure to clean his room>. irk stresses difficulty in enduring and the resulting weariness or impatience of spirit <careless waste irks the boss>. bother suggests interference with comfort or peace of mind <don't bother me while I'm reading>.
VEX Defined for Kids
vex
verb \ˈveks\
vexedvex·ing
Definition of VEX for Kids
1
: to bring trouble, distress, or worry to <“It is an excellent plan to have some place where we can go to be quiet, when things vex or grieve us.” — Louisa May Alcott, Little Women>
2
: to annoy by small irritations <Flies vexed the cows.>
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