Chaffing

Chaffing, primarily a gerund or present participle of the verb 'chafe', refers to the act of rubbing against something, typically skin against skin or clothing, leading to irritation, soreness, and even blistering. It can also extend to the act of irritating or frustrating someone, pushing their patience or causing annoyance. Often, this is a result of repetitive friction or abrasive contact, whether physical or emotional. The intensity varies greatly, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain or exasperation depending on the duration and intensity of the 'chaffing' involved. Think of it as a form of ongoing irritation.

Chaffing meaning with examples

• After running a marathon, the runner experienced severe chaffing between their thighs, making every step excruciating. The constant friction from the athletic shorts and the repetitive motion caused significant skin damage. They applied balm, hoping for rapid recovery. It's a common runner’s ailment.
• The tight, ill-fitting shirt caused persistent chaffing around her neck and underarms during her hike. She regretted not choosing a looser, more breathable fabric to help prevent this abrasive effect. The constant discomfort distracted from the trail's beauty, a learning point for future adventures.
• The comedian’s insensitive jokes were chaffing the audience, especially those who were the subjects of the humor. Their initial amusement faded, replaced by discomfort and growing resentment. The persistent jabs crossed the line, prompting some audience members to walk out.
• The constant criticism and micromanagement from the manager was chaffing her, slowly eroding her morale. Every constructive suggestion met with doubt, leading to a constant state of stress. Eventually, she considered finding a new job to escape this relentless strain.
• The new boots caused intense chaffing on his heels after only an hour of walking. He knew better and should have broken them in properly. Now, he was struggling with blisters that hampered his plans, making him late.