Pest

Noun

Definition: An annoying or troublesome person or thing.

Definition: An organism, typically an insect or animal, that is destructive or harmful to crops, livestock, or humans.

Synonyms: Nuisance, Bother, Menace, Annoyance, Troublemaker

Antonyms: Helper, Ally, Friend

Examples:
  • My little brother can be such a pest when he's bored.
  • The infestation of pests in the cornfield led to a significant decrease in yield.
Mnemonics:
  • Think of pests as annoying creatures that cause trouble.
  • "Pest" rhymes with "pesty," which can help you remember its meaning.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "pest" originated from the Middle English word "pestilence," which means a fatal epidemic disease. It comes from the Latin word "pestis," which means plague or contagious disease.

Historical Usage:

The term has been used since the Middle English period and has evolved to encompass both an annoying person and a destructive organism.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"A pest in one's ear"

Explanation:

Refers to someone annoyingly and persistently whispering unwanted advice or information.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Assuming that pests are limited to insects or animals.

Explanation:

While pests commonly refer to insects or animals that cause harm, the term can also be used for people or things that are annoying or troublesome.

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