Bother
/ˈbɒð.ər/noun
To annoy, disturb, or trouble someone; also, a nuisance or inconvenience.
Did you know?Unlike words like *nightmare* or *disaster*, *bother* has no securely established ancient “dark” literal meaning; its history is obscure enough that etymologists still treat its origin as uncertain.
Etymological Timeline
17th Century
English
bother
“To perplex, harass, or trouble; first recorded in Irish and British English in the sense of causing confusion or annoyance.”
18th Century
English
bother
“To annoy or inconvenience someone; the modern common sense develops.”
18th–19th Century
English
bother
“A fuss, disturbance, or nuisance; also used as an exclamation of irritation.”
Modern English
English
bother
“To irritate, disturb, or cause trouble; one of English’s most familiar words for everyday annoyance.”