Meaning & Definition of word "Nettle"
to
Nettle
/ˈnɛt.əl/
noun:
- 1. A flowering plant with jagged leaves and stinging hairs that cause a painful rash on contact.
- Example: Beware of the nettle while hiking through the woods, as it can leave you with painful welts.
- 2. Any of several plants of the genus Urtica, particularly Urtica dioica, known for their stinging properties.
- Example: Farmers often refer to nettles as a nuisance because they invade fields and gardens.
verb:
- 1. To irritate or annoy someone.
- Example: His constant teasing seemed to nettle her more than usual.
- 2. To sting or sting-like pain, similar to the effect of a nettle plant.
- Example: The thought of her lost opportunity continued to nettle him long after the event.
Etymology
Middle English 'netil', from Old English 'netele'; akin to the Latin 'ngere' meaning to sting.
Common Phrases and Expressions
to nettle someone:
to annoy or irritate someone.
a nettle in one's path:
a discouraging obstacle or problem.
Related Words
urtication:
the act of stinging or causing irritation.
irritation:
the state of feeling annoyed, frustrated, or angry.
Slang Meanings of nettle
Meaning: to bother or annoy.
Example Sentence: Stop nettling me with your jokes!
Meaning: to provoke a reaction.
Example Sentence: He likes to nettle people just to see how they react.