Definition of aggravating

The word "aggravating" has its etymology in the Latin words "aggravare," meaning "to load or increase," and "gravare," meaning "to burden." In the 15th century, the verb "aggravate" emerged, which initially meant "to make worse" or "to increase the severity of." This sense of the word drew influence from the Latin concept of "gravitas," or weight, implying a sense of heightened importance or seriousness. Over time, the adjective "aggravating" developed from the verb, describing something that causes annoyance, frustration, or irritation. Today, "aggravating" is commonly used to describe circumstances, behaviors, or situations that are exasperating or troublesome.