galling

[gaw-ling] / ˈgɔ lɪŋ /

ADJECTIVE

very upsetting

Synonyms

STRONG

aggravating annoying bitter exasperating harassing humiliating irritating plaguing provoking rankling vexing

WEAK

acid afflictive bothersome distasteful grievous irksome nettlesome painful unpalatable vexatious

Antonyms

STRONG

agreeable pleasant

WEAK

cheering comforting pleasing satisfying soothing wonderful

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It has been particularly galling, Williamson said, because "confidence was starting to build a little bit" in the sector.

From BBC • Mar. 16, 2026

Perhaps the most galling part of Cannon’s order, though, was that she issued it at all.

From Slate • Feb. 26, 2026

The most galling part is how rarely they do.

From Salon • Feb. 25, 2026

The concurrent spending on infrastructure was particularly galling to female athletes and some alumni, according to SwimSwam.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 28, 2025

That she was barred from some journeys and not others was increasingly galling.

From "The Girl Who Drank the Moon" by Kelly Barnhill

Vocabulary lists containing galling

Tuck Everlasting

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Unbroken

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

A Separate Peace

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!