Bother

/ˈbäT͟hər/

Meaning & Definition

noun

the action of worrying or troubling someone; a source of annoyance.

It's not worth the bother to argue about it.

an effort made to do something, especially when it incurs inconvenience.

I decided it wasn’t worth the bother to go back home for my wallet.

verb

to take the trouble to do something; to cause someone to feel worried or troubled.

I didn't want to bother you with my problems.

to make someone feel worried, upset, or annoyed.

It really bothers me when people are late.

to disturb or interrupt someone.

Please don’t bother me while I’m working.

Late Middle English: from the verb 'bother' (in the sense of 'to make a fuss').

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.

botheration

The action of bothering someone; annoyance.

bothered

Feeling troubled, concerned, or annoyed.

To annoy someone excessively.

Stop bothering me with your questions!

To cause someone a minor inconvenience.

It really bothers me when people are late.