# vexed

/ˈvɛkst/ (US) · /vˈɛkst/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/vexed
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

feeling annoyed or worried about something that is difficult to solve. You use this when a problem is frustrating you because it is not easy to fix.

For teachers: feeling annoyed, worried, or perplexed by a difficult or frustrating situation. Often used to describe a state of being troubled by a persistent problem.

## Examples

- I am vexed by this difficult math problem.
- The manager was vexed by the constant technical errors that kept the website from loading properly for customers.
- The diplomat was deeply vexed by the lack of progress in the negotiations, as both sides remained unwilling to compromise on the most contentious points of the treaty.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.