1
as in plague
a widespread disease resulting in a high rate of death
one of the great pests of the 20th century was the influenza epidemic of 1918, which killed millions across the globe
Synonyms & Similar Words
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2
as in nuisance
one who is obnoxiously annoying
stop being a pest to your sister and go find something else to do
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in headache
something that is a source of irritation
a never-ending construction project that continues to be a pest for motorists
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Examples Sentences
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Recent Examples of pest
This reportedly included problems with temperature control, pests and cross-contamination, all of which can contribute to illnesses.
—
Justin Klawans, theweek, 19 Nov. 2024
Below, read more tips from Braun, who offered insights about tracking down pests.
—Sydney Borchers, Fox News, 12 Nov. 2024
The Asian lady beetle is native to eastern Asia but was introduced to the United States and other parts of the world in the early 20th century as a biological control agent for aphids and other pests.
—Marie Woodward, Hartford Courant, 9 Nov. 2024
Solution The first line of defense against pests is a good offense.
—Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for pest 
Justin Klawans, theweek, 19 Nov. 2024
Below, read more tips from Braun, who offered insights about tracking down pests.
—Sydney Borchers, Fox News, 12 Nov. 2024
The Asian lady beetle is native to eastern Asia but was introduced to the United States and other parts of the world in the early 20th century as a biological control agent for aphids and other pests.
—Marie Woodward, Hartford Courant, 9 Nov. 2024
Solution The first line of defense against pests is a good offense.
—Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for pest
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pest
Noun
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Needless to say, Orlok will make the trip to Wisborg — arriving in Germany like a plague, with Thomas all but crawling back home to his wife behind him — long before Western society will learn to accept that denying human desire is less a collective victory than a personal self-defeat.David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 2 Dec. 2024
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Otherwise, butterfly larvae would be like locusts, like a plague.Outside Online, Outside Online, 9 Oct. 2024
Noun
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The cat must be happy in their environment to thrive, so animal coordinators on movie sets must ensure that studio temperature, cast and crew interactions, and the moving of objects aren't a nuisance to the cat.Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2024
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Muscle cramps can be a nuisance, but there are ways to relieve the pain and discomfort.Laura Schober, Health, 8 Dec. 2024
Noun
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Symptoms linked to the mystery disease include fever, headaches, coughing and anemia, raising concerns about the Congo's limited medical infrastructure.Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 12 Dec. 2024
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That was until a throbbing headache set in, said Covert, 18.Erika Edwards, NBC News, 12 Dec. 2024
Noun
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Chaos has convulsed the heart of the European Union whose sanctions and military support for Kyiv have proven to be a thorn in the side of Putin's intentions.Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 8 Dec. 2024
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Home to brands such as Kim Crawford and Meiomi wines and Casa Noble and Mi Campo tequilas, the business has been a thorn in Constellation’s side.Paulina Likos, CNBC, 3 Dec. 2024
Noun
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The annoyance is really the side effect or collateral damage to a presumably reasonable activity.Caleb Harris, Austin American-Statesman, 22 Nov. 2024
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The week’s biggest stories (Christina House / Los Angeles Times) A look at Kamala Harris’ roots in California Living on the same block as Harris is a delight and an annoyance, her Brentwood neighbors say.Hunter Clauss, Los Angeles Times, 19 Oct. 2024
Noun
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This combination forms a barrier that protects the stomach lining from irritants, potentially reducing inflammation and heartburn.Boutayna Chokrane, WIRED, 6 Dec. 2024
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Avoid triggers: Identify and avoid known irritants, such as soap and laundry detergents containing fragrances or other harsh chemicals. Try an oatmeal bath: Oatmeal baths can soothe dry, itchy, irritated skin.Lindsay Curtis, Health, 27 Nov. 2024
Noun
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While frustration has mounted in recent years with Boston’s lack of big moves, reduced payroll and having missed the postseason in five of the last six seasons, the wheels are turning toward contention.Ken Rosenthal, The Athletic, 12 Dec. 2024
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As Venus and Mars clash, avoid taking frustration out on colleagues.USA TODAY, USA TODAY, 12 Dec. 2024
Thesaurus Entries Near pest
Cite this Entry
“Pest.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pest. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.
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