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.

The most galling part was that in Zenica, near Sarajevo, on Tuesday, the Italians had scored first.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 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

As galling as it is to lose three games on home soil, this was an experience England needed before the World Cup.

From BBC • Nov. 8, 2025

Still, it was galling, this having to admit she was afraid.

From "Tuck Everlasting" by Natalie Babbit