Rankled

To cause persistent irritation or resentment; to annoy or irritate deeply and continuously. The feeling of being rankled implies a lingering sense of annoyance or bitterness, often stemming from perceived unfairness, insult, or a frustrating situation. It suggests an emotional wound that doesn't heal easily, causing a recurring feeling of discomfort or anger. The intensity of the emotion can range from mild annoyance to seething rage, but the defining characteristic of 'rankled' is the sustained nature of the negative feeling. It's about something that continues to bother you long after the initial event, staying in your mind and influencing your reactions. It often speaks of an injury to one's pride, dignity or sense of justice that they cannot easily forget.

Rankled meaning with examples

• The criticism of his work rankled him for weeks. He couldn't shake the feeling that he'd been unfairly judged. Despite trying to dismiss it, the comments kept replaying in his mind, diminishing his focus. The persistent feeling of being belittled continued to undermine his confidence.
• Her colleague's promotion, despite her having more experience, rankled her significantly. The injustice of it fueled her resentment, leading to workplace tensions. Even though she tried to be professional, the feelings of unfairness remained, affecting her performance, making her dread interactions.
• The government's controversial policy rankled many citizens, igniting protests and debates. The perceived infringement on their rights sparked outrage. The constant reminders in the media and amongst friends fueled this. The continuous discussions exacerbated feelings of frustration with the authority.
• The harsh treatment he received at the audition rankled him for years. It crushed his confidence, making it hard for him to pursue his dream. He felt as if he had been set up to fail and his confidence was crushed. The sting of rejection remained, coloring his perception of the arts community.