aggravate
UK: ˈæɡ.rə.veɪt | US: ˈæɡ.rə.veɪt
vt. to make a problem, injury, or offense worse or more serious
vt. to annoy or exasperate someone
aggravate = ag<to, toward> + grav<heavy> + ate<verb suffix>
- ag (from Latin ad-, meaning "to, toward")
- grav (from Latin gravis, meaning "heavy, serious")
- ate (Latin-derived verb suffix indicating action)
Etymology Origin:
The word "aggravate" originates from Latin aggravare ("to make heavier"), combining ad- (intensifying prefix) and gravis ("heavy"). Initially used in the 16th century to describe physical weight, it later evolved metaphorically to mean "worsen" or "intensify" (e.g., a situation). The colloquial sense of "annoy" emerged in the 17th century, reflecting how emotional burdens can feel "heavy."
The lack of rain will aggravate the drought conditions.
His constant interruptions aggravated everyone in the meeting.
Scratching the rash may aggravate the inflammation.
Poor communication only served to aggravate the conflict.
She was aggravated by the slow internet connection.