irksome

adjective

irk·​some ˈərk-səm How to pronounce irksome (audio)
Synonyms of irksomenext
: tending to irk : tedious
an irksome task
irksomely adverb
irksomeness noun

Synonyms of irksome

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Examples of irksome in a Sentence

the irksome task of cleaning up the irksome habit of leaving all the kitchen cabinet doors open
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.
The prophecy remains at the center of my critique of this series, if not its biggest problem, then at least one of its most irksome. — Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026 But nothing has been more irksome to residents than the massive overcrowding, the Times reported. — Teresa Mull, FOXNews.com, 25 July 2026 For long-time Fitbit users, the loss of features like blood pressure tracking or custom meal creation will be irksome. — ArsTechnica, 5 June 2026 Few things are going right for the 2026 Red Sox, but Wong’s almost-goner ranks among the most irksome grievances. — Gabrielle Starr, Boston Herald, 30 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for irksome

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of irksome was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

irk
irksome
Irkutsk
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Cite this Entry

“Irksome.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/irksome. Accessed 21 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

irksome

adjective
irk·​some ˈərk-səm How to pronounce irksome (audio)
: annoying because of length or dullness
an irksome task
irksomely adverb
irksomeness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on irksome

Nglish: Translation of irksome for Spanish Speakers

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