Nettle

/ˈnɛt.əl/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A flowering plant with jagged leaves and stinging hairs that cause a painful rash on contact.

Beware of the nettle while hiking through the woods, as it can leave you with painful welts.

Any of several plants of the genus Urtica, particularly Urtica dioica, known for their stinging properties.

Farmers often refer to nettles as a nuisance because they invade fields and gardens.

verb

To irritate or annoy someone.

His constant teasing seemed to nettle her more than usual.

To sting or sting-like pain, similar to the effect of a nettle plant.

The thought of her lost opportunity continued to nettle him long after the event.

Middle English 'netil', from Old English 'netele'; akin to the Latin 'ngere' meaning to sting.

to nettle someone:

to annoy or irritate someone.

a nettle in one's path:

a discouraging obstacle or problem.

to bother or annoy.

Stop nettling me with your jokes!

to provoke a reaction.

He likes to nettle people just to see how they react.