Pronunciation: [biː vˈɛkst] (IPA) 
The spelling of the phrase "be vexed" may seem peculiar to some, as the pronunciation does not match the written form. In phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /biː ˈvɛkst/. The "e" in "vexed" is silent, so it is pronounced as "vext." As for the meaning of the phrase, it refers to feeling irked or annoyed. While the spelling may seem confusing, it is important to remember that English is full of irregularities such as this one.
The term "be vexed" refers to a state of frustration, annoyance, or perplexity experienced by an individual in response to a particular situation or circumstance. It entails feeling unsettled, troubled, or agitated due to a variety of reasons such as confusion, irritation, or distress.
When someone is vexed, they are typically bothered or troubled by something that disrupts their sense of comfort or normalcy. This may be caused by external factors such as encountering an issue or obstacle that seems difficult to overcome or understand. Alternatively, it can arise from internal conflicts, such as being conflicted about a decision or unsure of the best course of action to take.
Being vexed often implies a heightened emotional or mental state, where a person's peace of mind is disrupted. It may manifest as a feeling of being trapped, entangled, or caught up in a perplexing dilemma. This can be a source of great frustration or agitation, as it may seem challenging to find a satisfactory resolution or way forward.
Moreover, someone who is vexed may display signs of being bothered or irritated. They might express their vexation through visible signs of distress, such as sighing, frowning, or demonstrating impatience. It can also lead to increased tension or interpersonal conflicts if the vexed individual interacts with others while carrying these emotions.
Overall, to "be vexed" is to experience a state of frustration or distress, often induced by external or internal factors that hinder one's peace of mind or present challenges that seem difficult to resolve.
The word "vexed" has its origins in Middle English. It derives from the Old French word "vexer", meaning "to annoy" or "to provoke". The Old French word itself can be traced back to the Latin word "vexare", which means "to shake" or "trouble". Over time, "vexed" became the past participle form of the verb "vex", referring to a state of being annoyed, irritated, or agitated.
