Meaning & Definition of word "Bother"
to
Bother
/ˈbäT͟hər/
noun:
- 1. the action of worrying or troubling someone; a source of annoyance.
- Example: It's not worth the bother to argue about it.
- 2. an effort made to do something, especially when it incurs inconvenience.
- Example: I decided it wasn’t worth the bother to go back home for my wallet.
verb:
- 1. to take the trouble to do something; to cause someone to feel worried or troubled.
- Example: I didn't want to bother you with my problems.
- 2. to make someone feel worried, upset, or annoyed.
- Example: It really bothers me when people are late.
- 3. to disturb or interrupt someone.
- Example: Please don’t bother me while I’m working.
Etymology
Late Middle English: from the verb 'bother' (in the sense of 'to make a fuss').
Common Phrases and Expressions
Not to bother:
Not to trouble or disturb someone.
Bother with:
To take the effort to do something.
Bother someone:
To disturb or annoy someone.
Related Words
botheration:
The action of bothering someone; annoyance.
bothered:
Feeling troubled, concerned, or annoyed.
Slang Meanings of bother
Meaning: To annoy someone excessively.
Example Sentence: Stop bothering me with your questions!
Meaning: To cause someone a minor inconvenience.
Example Sentence: It really bothers me when people are late.