irk

UK: ɜːk | US: ɜːrk

Definition

  1. vt. to irritate, annoy, or weary someone

Structure
irk <to weary, from Old Norse yrkja>
Etymology

The word "irk" originates from the Old Norse verb yrkja, meaning "to work" or "to weary." Over time, its meaning shifted in Middle English to specifically convey a sense of annoyance or fatigue caused by persistent irritation. The transition reflects how labor or repetitive effort can metaphorically translate into mental or emotional vexation.

Examples

  1. His constant complaints began to irk everyone in the office.

  2. She didn’t want to irk her neighbors with loud music late at night.

  3. The slow internet speed irks me daily.

  4. His habit of interrupting others irked the entire team.

  5. Little things, like misplaced keys, can irk her easily.