I. ˈbä-thər verb
( both·ered ; both·er·ing ˈbäth-riŋ, ˈbä-thə-)
Etymology: origin unknown
Date: 1728
transitive verb
1. : to annoy especially by petty provocation : irk
2. : to intrude upon : pester
3. : to cause to be somewhat anxious or concerned
my stomach is bother ing me
— often used interjectionally
intransitive verb
1. : to become concerned
wouldn't bother with details
2. : to take pains : take the trouble
never bother ed to ask
Synonyms: see annoy
II. noun
Date: 1788
1.
a. : a state of petty discomfort, annoyance, or worry
b. : something that causes petty annoyance or worry
2. : fuss