aggravation
UK: ˌæɡ.rəˈveɪ.ʃən | US: ˌæɡ.rəˈveɪ.ʃən
n. the state of becoming worse or more serious; exacerbation
n. annoyance or exasperation, often due to repeated provocation
aggravation = ag<to> + grav<heavy> + ation<noun suffix>
- ag (from Latin ad-, meaning "to" or "toward")
- grav (from Latin gravis, meaning "heavy" or "serious")
- ation (noun-forming suffix indicating an action or state)
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin aggravare ("to make heavier"), combining ad- (intensifying prefix) and gravis ("heavy"). Over time, it evolved in English to metaphorically describe both physical worsening (e.g., a medical condition) and emotional irritation (e.g., frustration). The dual meanings reflect the literal ("make heavier") and figurative ("weigh on the mind") logic of its roots.
The aggravation of his injury forced him to quit the game.
Constant noise from construction caused her great aggravation.
Poor communication only led to further aggravation of the conflict.
She sighed in aggravation after the third failed attempt.
The policy changes resulted in the aggravation of economic inequalities.