Definitions

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.

To the U.A.E., this was especially galling because several OPEC+ states were routinely falling short of their production targets.

From Barron's • May 4, 2026

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

“Almost as galling as being discovered in the midst of an embrace.”

From "The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume II: The Kingdom on the Waves" by M.T. Anderson

Vocabulary lists containing galling

Tuck Everlasting

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Unbroken

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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!