Irk

PEEVE

It’s a noun for something that consistently bothers you, like nails on a chalkboard or a habit you just can’t stand. Think of the word that follows "pet" in a common phrase.

Irk" is a verb meaning to annoy or bother someone, and "peeve" is a noun that refers to something that irritates you. The clue plays on the idea that both words relate to annoyance—one as an action, the other as a thing. It’s a straightforward definition where the answer is a synonym for the feeling described. Think of it like saying "What’s a word for something that really bugs you?" and the answer is "peeve.