aggravation
n. C / U B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˌæɡɹəˈveɪʃən// UK //ˌæɡɹɐvˈeɪʃən// ag·gra·va·tion
n. a feeling of being annoyed or frustrated. It can also mean making a problem or a physical injury worse.
n. a state of annoyance or irritation; alternatively, the act of making a condition, injury, or problem more severe. Often used in legal contexts to describe the intentional worsening of a situation.
The long wait at the bank caused a lot of aggravation.
The constant noise from the construction site was a major source of aggravation for the residents.
While the initial injury was minor, the subsequent aggravation from repetitive strain led to a prolonged recovery period that required professional intervention.
From Middle French aggravation.