Rankling (/ˈræŋkliŋ/) is a word used to describe a feeling of great irritation or resentment. The spelling of the word contains the phoneme /ŋ/ which is represented by the letter combination "ng" at the end of the word. The vowel sound in the first syllable is represented by the letter "a" which is pronounced as /æ/. The word is spelled with one "l" after the "n" which is a common spelling mistake. Its origin is from the Middle English word "ranclen" which means "to fester."
Rankling, in its verb form, refers to the act of causing persistent irritation or resentment. It refers to a deeply troubling or vexing feeling that persists over time, often manifesting as a lingering sense of bitterness or discontent. This word is derived from the verb "to rankle," which means to cause irritation or annoyance.
Rankling can occur as a result of a perceived injustice, a hurtful remark, a grievous act, or any other situation that leaves an individual deeply wounded or ruffled. The feeling of rankling arises when the wounds of such incidents persist, festering and causing ongoing distress or discontentment. It is often characterized by a sense of being deeply offended and unable to let go of the negative emotions associated with the source of irritation.
Rankling may also be used to describe the process by which a frustrating or distressing situation continues to cause displeasure or discontentment, even after the initial event has passed. It reflects the persistent nature of the emotional or psychological disturbance and the difficulty in finding closure or resolution.
In a broader sense, the term rankling can be used metaphorically to describe any situation or circumstance that deeply upsets or disturbs a person, causing ongoing emotional or psychological distress. It implies a deep-seated resentment or irritation that is difficult to overcome or forget.
A festering; deep and active irritating of mind.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "rankling" is derived from the verb "rankle".
The verb "rankle" can be traced back to the Middle English word "ranklen" or "rancle", which means "to fester" or "to cause pain or irritation". This Middle English word can further be connected to the Old Norse word "ranka", meaning "to swell" or "to be sore".
Over time, "rankle" developed into its current form, representing the action of causing persistent irritation or resentment. The noun form of this word, "rankling", refers to the act or state of causing such irritation or resentment.