pest
Pronunciation: [pɛst]
Context: "insects"
(noun) a small animal or insect that is annoying or harmful. Pests can damage plants, crops, or food. Think of bugs that make your garden less pretty or that eat your fruits.
Example
The gardener was happy when the pests were finally gone, and the plants looked healthy.
Example
There were too many pests in the garden, and the vegetables did not grow well.
Example
What kinds of pests do you usually find in your backyard?
Context: "bothersome person"
(noun) a person who annoys or bothers someone repeatedly. This could be someone who is always asking too many questions or making noise when you want to be quiet.
Example
My little brother can be a pest sometimes, but I still love him.
Example
She doesn’t want to be a pest at the party, so she stays quiet.
Example
Why does he always have to act like such a pest when we’re studying?
Context: "annoying behavior"
(verb) to bother or annoy someone repeatedly. It’s like when you keep asking the same question or interrupting someone while they are talking.
Example
She loves to pest her friends with funny jokes all day long.
Example
He decided not to pest his parents for candy this time.
Example
Do you ever feel like you might pest your friend if you keep asking for their help?