Meaning & Definition of word "Nuisance"

Nuisance

/ˈnjuːsəns/

noun:

  • 1. A person, thing, or circumstance causing inconvenience or annoyance.
    • Example: The loud construction noise outside my apartment is a real nuisance.
  • 2. A legal term referring to a person or thing causing harm or inconvenience, particularly in relation to property rights.
    • Example: The residents complained that the neighbor's barking dog was a nuisance.
  • 3. An annoyance or inconvenience that impacts someone's enjoyment of their property or life.
    • Example: The overflowing garbage bins became a nuisance for the entire neighborhood.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old French 'nuisance', from 'nuire' meaning 'to harm'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

public nuisance:

A condition that is harmful to the public at large.

nuisance lawsuit:

A legal case brought to court that aims to address a perceived nuisance.

Related Words

irritant:

Something that causes annoyance or discomfort.

disruption:

An interruption that causes disorder.

Slang Meanings of nuisance

Meaning: Pain in the neck

Example Sentence: That guy is a real pain in the neck, always complaining about something.

Meaning: Buzzkill

Example Sentence: He’s such a buzzkill, always pointing out the negatives.