obnoxious
UK: əbˈnɒk.ʃəs | US: əbˈnɑːk.ʃəs
adj. extremely unpleasant or offensive
adj. (archaic) exposed to harm or punishment
The word "obnoxious" originates from Latin obnoxius, combining ob- (toward) and noxa (harm, injury). Originally, it meant "exposed to harm" or "punishable," reflecting vulnerability. Over time, the meaning shifted to describe behavior that is figuratively "harmful" or offensive to others, emphasizing social annoyance rather than physical danger. The suffix -ious standardizes it as an adjective.
His obnoxious laughter disrupted the entire lecture.
The obnoxious smell from the dumpster made everyone avoid the alley.
She found his constant bragging utterly obnoxious.
In ancient Rome, debtors were considered obnoxious to their creditors.
The party guests grew tired of his obnoxious jokes.