pester - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
pester Word Meanings
- to annoy someone repeatedly
- to bother someone persistently
- to trouble or disturb someone
pester Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
pester Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpɛstə/
US
/ˈpɛstər/
pester Word Etymology
Root decomposition: pest (a small troublesome creature) + er (agent suffix). Historical origin: Middle English 'pesteren', from Old French 'pestre' meaning 'to annoy'. Memory image: Imagine a small pestering insect buzzing around your ear repeatedly, driving you to distraction.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Pester means to annoy someone repeatedly or to bother them persistently. It implies relentless insistence that ignores polite boundaries. You might pester a coworker about an overdue report, a friend about plans, or a salesperson who keeps calling. Pester adds a strong negative tone beyond a simple bother, yet it is lighter than harassment in most everyday contexts. In formal writing you would choose milder verbs like annoy or nag, while in casual speech pester conveys frustration and humor depending on tone. People often feel pestered when the other person ignores polite cues, or when the behavior continues after a clear no.
Usage Reminders
- pester someone about something
- pester someone to do something
- use with a negative or exasperated tone
- avoid in formal writing where possible
- note that repeated refusals should stop the pestering
Common Misconceptions
- Not about physical pest control
- Not a noun here; pest is related but different
- Can be transitive only; you pester someone, not the other way
- Less severe than harassment in casual usage
- Often confused with bother but stronger in persistence
Thinking Differences
English tends to treat pester as a playful yet sharp rebuke in casual speech; learners should note the tone and that it is not suitable for formal writing. Misconceptions often involve confusing pester with harass or with mere bother.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: pester someone about something; pester someone to do something
- Practice with negative or exasperated tone to convey annoyance
- Distinguish pester from harass for seriousness
- Use in casual speech, not formal writing
- Note intensifier phrases like pester to death or pester forever
- Pair with who is being bothered and what for clear context
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'pester' mean?
A.To annoy persistently
B.To provide help
C.To celebrate a victory
D.To organize an event
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'pester' correctly?
A.I like to pester my friends by giving them gifts.
B.The child would pester his parents for a new toy every day.
C.She wanted to pester the plants with water.
D.He decided to pester for some peace and quiet.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'pester'?
A.Encourage
B.Bother
C.Help
D.Support
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'pester'?
A.Disturb
B.Annoy
C.Ignore
D.Intrude
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might 'pester' another person?
A.Someone is quietly reading in a corner.
B.A child keeps asking for dessert after dinner.
C.A group is having a catered meeting in peace.
D.A person enjoys a relaxing day at the beach.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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