harry

UK: ˈhæri | US: ˈhæri

Definition

  1. vt. to persistently harass or annoy

  2. vt. to raid or attack repeatedly (archaic)

  3. vt. to plunder or lay waste (historical)

Structure
har <army>ry <verb suffix>har <army>ry <verb suffix>
Etymology

The word "harry" traces back to Old English hergian, meaning "to ravage or plunder," derived from here (army). It originally described Viking raids or military attacks, later evolving to mean persistent harassment. The connection between "army" and "harassment" reflects the destructive impact of invading forces.

Examples

  1. The children continued to harry the dog with their teasing.

  2. In medieval times, Vikings would harry coastal villages.

  3. The manager was harried by endless complaints.

  4. The rebels harried the king’s troops for months.

  5. Stop harrying me with trivial questions!