Ah, the feeling of a perfectly placed word slotting into your grid! There’s nothing quite like it, is there? But then there are those moments, aren’t there? Those single words that stare back, deceptively simple, yet utterly impenetrable. Today, we’re diving into one such gem that frequently pops up in the lexicon of a great
crossword clue
: ‘Annoyed (5)‘.
On the surface, ‘Annoyed’ seems straightforward enough. It’s an adjective, clearly indicating a state of being. Five letters. How many words could there possibly be to describe this particular emotional state within such a confined space? Plenty, as it turns out! This is where the true craft of crossword construction, and the art of the dedicated solver, truly shines. It’s a classic example of a seemingly easy definitional
crossword clue
that can throw even experienced enthusiasts for a loop, turning a confident moment into a head-scratching pause.
When faced with a direct definition like this, our minds immediately start a rapid-fire association game.
Irritated, vexed, bothered, peeved, miffed, irked…
The list of potential synonyms goes on and on. But the trick, as seasoned solvers know, isn’t just about finding
any
synonym. It’s about finding the
precise
word that fits the letter count and, crucially, often the constructor’s specific brand of wordplay or chosen vocabulary. This type of
crossword clue
demands not just breadth of knowledge, but a keen eye for subtle distinction and an understanding of how constructors bend language to their will.
The word ‘annoyed’ itself holds a fascinating spectrum of meaning. Is it a mild irritation, a simmering resentment, or something more fleeting? Constructors love to play with these nuances. A
crossword clue
asking for ‘Annoyed (5)‘ could lean into the slightly grumpy side, the gently provoked, or the mildly displeased. Each subtle shift can lead you down a different lexical path, and sometimes, right into a charming cul-de-sac of confusion, especially when you’re convinced you’ve already tried every possible combination! It’s a testament to the richness of the English language that such a simple feeling can be expressed in so many subtly different ways within the confines of a puzzle.
Five-letter words are particularly intriguing in crosswords. They’re long enough to be meaningful and possess distinct characteristics, but short enough to be challenging, often using common letter combinations that can easily mislead. For ‘Annoyed (5)‘, you’re not just searching for a simple definition, but for a word that perfectly encapsulates the sentiment
and
fits that specific length. This is where a good grasp of common English vocabulary, coupled with a knack for recognizing common word endings or beginnings, becomes invaluable. The ultimate satisfaction comes from unlocking these compact linguistic puzzles, turning a momentary frustration into a triumphant ‘aha!’ moment that every
crossword solver
lives for. This specific
crossword clue
is a perfect microcosm of what makes these daily challenges so utterly addictive.
Available Answers:
IRATE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Sunday, 5 October 2025