Irk

Verb

Definition: To irritate or annoy someone.

Synonyms: Irritate, Annoy, Bother, Vex, Provoke

Antonyms: Please, Delight, Satisfy

Examples:
  • The constant noise from the construction site irked me.
  • Her habit of interrupting others during conversations always irks me.
Mnemonics:
  • Think of the word "irk" as a roller coaster ride that annoys you.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "irk" originated in the early 14th century from the Old Norse word "yrkja" and the Middle English word "urken", which means "to grow weary or to work". Over time, it developed the specific meaning of annoying or irritating someone.

Historical Usage:

The word "irk" has been used consistently for centuries to express the feeling of annoyance or irritation.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Irk someone's nerves"

Explanation:

This phrase means to greatly annoy or irritate someone to the point where their nerves are affected.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "irk" with similar words like "irked" or "irksome".

Explanation:

While "irked" is the past tense of "irk", and "irksome" is an adjective describing something that causes annoyance, they are not interchangeable. "Irk" specifically refers to the action of annoying or irritating someone.

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