Rankle
Verb
Definition: To cause persistent annoyance or resentment.
Synonyms: Irritate, Irk, Vex, Gall, Bother
Antonyms: Please, Soothe, Calm
Examples:
- The criticism from his boss continued to rankle him.
- Her sarcastic remarks rankled with him for days.
Mnemonics:
- Think of "rankle" as "rankling" someone's emotions.
Etymology:
Origin:
Middle English 'ranclen', from Old French 'rencler', probably of Germanic origin meaning "to cause pain".
Historical Usage:The verb has been in use since the 15th century with a similar meaning of causing resentment or irritation.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Let it rankle"
Explanation:This phrase means to allow something to continue to cause resentment or annoyance instead of letting it go or addressing the issue.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Confusing "rankle" with "ranch"
Explanation:"Rankle" and "ranch" are two distinct words with different meanings and pronunciations. "Rankle" refers to causing annoyance or resentment, while "ranch" refers to a large farm or a style of house.