Reverse Dictionary: TROUBLE

ADJECTIVES
► ACCUMBROUS troublesome, cumbrous, oppressive → 1392 obs.
► AERUMNOUS full of troubles and miseries; troubled, distressed → 1658 obs.
► AFFLICT overwhelmed with trouble → 1393 obs.
► AFFLICTIVE troublesome to someone; trying → 1576 
► AGGRIEVED troubled, distressed, annoyed, vexed → 1330 obs.
► AGGRUDGED troubled, afflicted → 1440 obs.
► ALL TORE OUT troubled, annoyed, upset → 1941 Amer. dial.
► ANNOYFUL giving trouble, molesting → 1386 obs.
► ANNOYOUS 1. causing annoyance, annoying; troubled, grieved, sad → 1400 arch.
2. troubled, grieved, sad → 1450 obs.
► ASSED OUT in severe trouble → 1993 
► AWKWARDLY troublesome, awkward, clumsy → 1703 Eng. dial.
► BALL-BREAKING troublesome, difficult, very irritating → 1959 US sl.
► BALL-BUSTING troublesome, difficult; irritating → 1944 US sl.
► BEHIND THE BAG in trouble → 1970 (Bk.)
► BEHIND THE EIGHT BALL in trouble; in a weak or losing position → 2006 US sl. (Bk.)
► BUNGLESOME troublesome and awkward → 1889 US
► BUSY troubled, anxious, uneasy → 1000 obs.
► BY THE ASS in trouble → 1971 (Bk.)
► CABBLIN troublesome, querulous → 1898 Sc. (Bk.)
► CADDLESOME of persons: troublesome → 1898 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► CADDLING troublesome, teasing, worrying → 1898 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► CAREFUL troubled, anxious, solicitous, concerned → 1000 obs.
► CARESOME troublesome, burdensome → 1535 Eng. dial.obs.
► CHARGEOUS troublesome, severe, oppressive → 1380 obs.
► CRUISIN’ FOR A BRUISE heading for trouble; inviting a beating → 1960 US sl.
► CRUISIN’ FOR A BRUISIN’ heading for trouble, esp. a physically beating → 1947 US sl.
► CUMBERSOME 1. troublesome to pass or get through → 1487 obs.
2. causing trouble or annoyance; troublesome, wearisome, oppressive → 1535 obs.
► CUMBROUS causing trouble, distress, or annoyance; full of trouble or care → 1400 obs.
► CUT DOWN troubled, vexed, disconcerted → 1843 
► DEAD facing trouble → 1990 US students’ sl.
► DERF troublesome, hard, difficult → 1225 obs.
► DITCHED in difficulties, in trouble → L19 US sl.
► DRETCHED troubled, oppressed → 16C 
► DRUVY of the mind: troubled, disturbed → 1000 obs.
► ENNOYOUS troublesome, annoying, vexatious → 1420 obs.
► EXTRAUGHT deeply troubled or agitated → 1509 obs.
► FASCIOUS troublesome, annoying, vexatious → 1725 Sc.
► FASHED troubled, worried → 1597 Sc. & N. Eng. dial.
► FASHING troublesome → 1900 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► FASHIOUS troublesome, annoying, irksome → 1536 Sc. & Eng. dial.
► FASHOUS troublesome, annoying, irksome → 1731 Sc.
► FASHY troublesome → 19C Eng. dial.
► FATCHED troubled in mind, perplexed → 1900 (Bk.)
► FESHOUS troublesome, annoying, vexatious → 1725 Eng. dial.
► FIKY troublesome, fiddling, minutely elaborate → 1768 Sc.
► FOMENTARY inciting trouble, discord, etc. → 2013
► FOR IT said of someone in danger of getting into trouble → 1909 sl., orig. services’ usage
► FOXY avoiding trouble → M19 UK criminals’ sl.
► FULL OF THE OLD NED troublesome, mischievous → 1959 Amer. dial.
► HANTY not troublesome → 1788 Sc. obs.
► HEART-SCALDED troubled, tormented, afflicted → 1843 Ireland
► HEAVY troublesome, annoying → 825 obs.
► HONEROUS troublesome, burdensome; oppressive → 1400 obs.
► ILL-FASHED troubled, worried → 1810 Sc.
► IMPORTUNABLE troublesome → 1566 obs.
► IMPORTUNATE troublesome; persistently troublesome → 1613 obs.
► IMPORTUNE troublesome, burdensome → 1400 obs.
► IN A BAD LOAF in trouble; in a difficult situation → L18 
► IN A BAD WAY ill; in trouble → 20C 
► IN A CROSS in trouble; at a disadvantage → 1954 US sl.
► IN A FIX in trouble → 1834 sl., orig. US
► IN A HOLE in trouble → 1762 sl.
► IN A JAM in trouble → 1914 sl., orig. US
► IN A PICKLE in trouble, in a mess, in difficulties → 1620 
► IN A SPOT in trouble → 1929 sl.
► IN BAD in trouble, out of favour → 1907 sl., orig. US
► IN BAD BREAD in trouble; in a difficult situation → L18 
► IN DEAD SCHTOOK ► IN DEAD SCHTUCK ► IN DEAD SHTOOK IN DEAD SHTUCK in serious trouble → 1936 
► IN DEEP DOO-DOO in serious trouble → 1989 sl., orig. & chiefly US
► IN DEEP SHIT in serious trouble → 1937 sl.
► IN DUTCH in trouble → 1851 sl., orig. US
► IN HOT WATER in trouble → 1765 sl.
► IN IT in trouble → L19 sl.
► IN LUMBER in trouble → 1965 Brit. sl.
► IN QUEER STREET in trouble → 1811  sl.
► IN SCHTOOK ► IN SCHTUCK ► IN SHTOOK ► IN SHTUCK in serious trouble → 1936 
► IN THE BAG in trouble; in an undesirable situation → 1968 Amer. sl.
► IN THE CACTUS in trouble, esp. with one person → 1944 Aust. sl.
► IN THE CART in trouble → 1889 Brit. sl.
► IN THE DOGBOX in trouble, esp. with one person → 1953 NZ sl.
► IN THE POO ► IN THE POOH in trouble → 1961 euphemism for ‘in the shit’
► IN THE RAGS in trouble or disgrace → 1860 sl.
► IN THE RATTLE in trouble → 1914 Brit. naval sl.
► IN THE SHIT in trouble → 1937 sl.
► IN THE SOUP in trouble → 1889 sl., orig. US
► IN THE SUDS troubled; perplexed; angry → 1617 sl.
► IN THE WOODS confused; lost; in trouble → 1984 Aust. colloq. (Bk.)
► IN WRONG in trouble, unpopular → 1900
► INFESTIOUS troublesome, hostile, inimical → 1597 obs.
► IRKING troublesome, irritating → 1898 Sc.
► JAMMED troubled, upset → 1970 US sl.
► JAMMED UP in trouble, in a difficult situation → 1920 sl.
► MAUL-HAULY troublesome, heavy, tedious → 1905 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► MEADLESS ► MEEDLESS  troublesome, tiresome, unruly; restless → 1790 Eng. dial.
► MESSING troublesome, bothering → 1905 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► MOLESTIOUS troublesome, annoying → 1524 obs.
► MOLESTUOUS troublesome, burdensome, annoying → 1572 obs.
► MOMBLEDY bewildered; troubled → 1905 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► MUSING troubling, worrisome → 1449 
► NICKY-NACKY troublesome → 1818 Sc. 
► NIDGING troublesome, restless → 1796 
► NOISANT troublesome, harmful, grievous → 1440 obs.
► NOYOUS troublesome, annoying, disagreeable → 1340 obs.
► OILY troublesome, unpleasant, unruly, obstinate → 1936 Amer. dial.
► ON A STICKY WICKET in trouble → 1999 (Bk.)
► ONERABLE troublesome, burdensome; oppressive → 1432 obs.
► ONERARIOUS troublesome, onerous, troublesome → 1548 obs.
► ONEROSE troublesome, burdensome; oppressive → 1450 obs.
► ONEROUS troublesome, burdensome; oppressive → 1400 obs.
► ON THE POT in trouble → 1840
► ON THE ROPES implying that someone or something is in serious trouble and near defeat → 1924 sl.
► ORDINARY troublesome, unpleasant, unruly → 1800 Amer. dial.
► ORNERY troublesome, unpleasant, unruly, unmanageable → 1862 Amer. dial.
► PERISHING confounded, troublesome; insignificant → 1605
► PESTEROUS troublesome, given to pestering, teasing → 1806 Amer. dial.
► PESTERSOME troublesome, bothersome, annoying → 1843 Amer. dial.
► PLAGUESOME troublesome, teasing, annoying → 1860 colloq.
► RAMMELSOME troublesome, rough → 1864 Sc.
► SAD troublesome, mischievous, corrupt → 17C sl.
► SAIRISH somewhat troublesome → 1904 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► SCORNSUM troublesome, bothering → 1904 Sc. (Bk.)
► SHAFTED in serious trouble → 1950 sl.
► SOUPED in trouble → 1895 sl.
► STROUBLE troublous → 1488 obs.
► STURTSOME disturbing, troublesome, vexatious → 1570 Sc. obs.
► STURTY disturbing, troublesome, vexatious → 1788 Sc.
► SWINKFUL troublesome, irksome → 1000 obs.
► TAISEY ► TEASY ► TEAZY troublesome, teasing → 1901 Eng. dial.
► TEENFUL troublesome, vexatious → 1861 Sc.
► TEUKIN troublesome, quarrelsome → 1905 Sc. obs. (Bk.)
► TEWSOME troublesome, tiresome → 1905 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► THRUTCHED troubled or distressed in mind → 1874 Eng. dial.
► TORE OUT troubled, angry, excited, annoyed, upset → 1903 Amer. dial.
► TORE-UP troubled, angry, excited, annoyed, upset → 1867 Amer. dial.
► TORMENTATIOUS troublesome → 1902 Sc.
► TORN OUT troubled, angry, excited, annoyed, upset → 1903 Amer. dial.
► TORN-UP troubled, angry, excited, annoyed, upset → 1855 Amer. dial.
► TROUBLEFUL troublesome → 1588 obs.
► TROUBLY troubled, confused, distraught, disturbed, worried → 1380 obs.
► TURBID mentally confused, perplexed, muddled; disturbed, troubled → 1647
► TURMOILOUS full of turmoil or tumult; disturbed, troublesome, troubled → 1553 obs.
► TURMOILY full of turmoil or tumult; disturbed, troubled → 1877
► TUSOME troublesome, tiresome → 1905 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► UNDER THE COSH in trouble, at a disadvantage → 1950 sl.
► UNDER THE HAMMER in trouble, at a disadvantage → 1950 sl.
► UNDER THE HATCHES in trouble, dead → M16 sl. 
► UNFORBIDDEN troublesome, unrestrained, unruly, disobedient → 1905 Sc. & Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► UNGAIN troublesome, intractable → 1895 Eng. dial.
► UNLUCKY troublesome, mischievous → 1905 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► UNRESTY troublesome, unquiet, full of unrest, restless, uneasy → 1340 obs. exc. Sc.
► UP AGAINST IT in trouble → 1896 sl., orig. Can.
► UP A GUM-TREE in trouble, in difficulties → 1926 Aust. sl.
► UP A POLE ► UP THE POLE in trouble → 1896 sl.
► UP ARSEHOLE STREET in an unpleasant place; in serious trouble → 1984 
► UP A STUMP in trouble → 1829 sl., orig. & chiefly US
► UP A WATTLE in trouble, in difficulties → 20C sl., orig. Aust.
► UP SHIT CREEK ► UP SHIT CREEK WITHOUT A PADDLE in trouble; in an awkward predicament → 1937 sl.
► UP THE CHUTE useless, worthless, failed, in serious trouble → 1941 Aust. sl.
► UP THE CREEK ► UP THE CREEK WITHOUT A PADDLE in trouble → 1918 sl.
► UP THE SPOUT in trouble, in a desperate situation → 1829 sl.
► VEXABLE troublesome, oppressive → 1525 obs.
► WAFF troublesome, unchancy, tricky → 1865 Sc.
► WICKED extremely trying, unpleasant, or troublesome → 1984 Aust. colloq. (Bk.)

ADVERBS
► ANNOYOUSLY in a troublesome or disconcerting manner → 1400 obs.
► IMPORTUNATELY troublesomely, grievously → 1564 obs.
► IMPORTUNELY troublesomely, grievously → 1656 obs.
► IN THE JACKPOT in trouble, in the doghouse → 1967 Amer. sl.
► UP THE POLE in trouble or difficulty → 1897 
► WITH MUCH ADO with much trouble or difficulty → 1548 

INTERJECTIONS & PHRASES
► ASSED OUT in trouble → 1996 African-American sl.
► AT THE MICKS ► AT THE MIX causing trouble → 1960
► DON’T CRY UNTIL YOU’RE HURT don’t anticipate trouble → 1905 Amer. dial. (Bk.)
► HAD THE PORK gotten in bad trouble → 1996 Amer. dial. (Bk.)
► HEADS ARE GOING TO ROLL people are going to get in trouble → 1995 US sl. (Bk.)
► HELL WITH THE HIDE OFF said of something extremely troublesome → 1945 US Western usage (Bk.)
► HELL’S A-BUSTING trouble or turmoil is starting → 1956 Amer. dial.
► HELL’S A-POPPING trouble or turmoil is starting → 1956 Amer. dial.
► IF IT AIN’T YOU, IT’S SOMEONE ELSE trouble is imminent → 1930 African-American sl.
► IN A BIT OF A TIGHT being in trouble → 1983 Amer. dial.
► IN ASS in trouble → 1980 Trinidad and Tobago
► IN DEEP SHIT in serious trouble → 1999 US sl.
► IN THE CACTUS in difficulties, in trouble → 1981 Aust. colloq. (Bk.)
► IN THE DWANG in trouble → 1994 S. Afr. sl.
► IN THE PIG’S A.H. in very great trouble → 1910 US sl.
► IN THE SOUP in trouble → 2006 US sl. (Bk.)
► KEEP YOUR ASS CLEAN stay out of trouble → 1961 US sl.
► ONE’S NUMBER IS UP one is in serious trouble → 20C Aust. sl.
► THE SHIT WILL FLY there will be trouble → 1974 UK sl.
► THE WHEELS FELL OFF trouble breaks out; a fearful crisis ensues → 1990
► WHEN THE SHIT FLIES when trouble suddenly or rapidly breaks out; when a situation suddenly becomes critical → 1966 sl.
► WHEN THE SHIT HITS THE FAN when trouble suddenly or rapidly breaks out; when a situation suddenly becomes critical → 1943 sl., orig. US Military
► YOUR ASS IS GRASS! you’re in great trouble → 1965 US sl.

NOUNS
► AG ► AGG trouble, problems, annoyance → 1980 sl.
► AGGRIEVANCE a trouble, burden, or hardship → 1400 
► AGGRO ► AGRO deliberate troublemaking; trouble, strife, problems → 1969 UK sl.
► BAD NEWS trouble, an unpleasant situation; difficulties → 1940 sl., orig. US
► BALLYHOOLY bad trouble → 1837 chiefly Irish English
► BARNEY (RUBBLE) trouble → 1980 rhyming sl.
► BARRAT trouble, distress, sorrow → 1230 obs.
► BIND something very troublesome or annoying → 1930 sl., chiefly Brit.
► BONE IN THE THROPPLE, A something that constantly causes trouble or problems → 1871 Sc.
► BOOGER something troublesome, distasteful, or discomforting → 1956 Amer. dial.
► BOTHERMENT something troublesome; perplexity → 1843 Sc. & Amer. dial.
► BOVVER trouble, fighting, violent behaviour, esp. when associated with skinhead culture → 1969 UK sl.
► BURBLE trouble, perplexity, disorder → 1812 
► BUSINESS trouble, difficulty → 1387 obs.
► CADDLE ► KADDLE trouble, worry, bother → 1856 Eng. dial.
► CAFLUGALTY ► CAFUGELTY trouble; difficulty; a row → 1914 Amer. sl.
► CARE trouble, mental suffering, sorrow → 1250 obs.
► CARELESSNESS freedom from trouble or anxiety → 1000 obs.
► CARKING  trouble, solicitude → 1583 obs.
► CORSIE ► CORZIE a cause of trouble and grief; a grievance → 1548 obs.
► CRAP trouble, difficulty; misfortune → 1932 
► CROSS a trouble, vexation, annoyance → 1573 
► CUMBER trouble, distress, embarrassment → 1513 obs.
► CUMBERING trouble, distress → 1303 obs.
► CUMBERMENT trouble, distress → 1300 obs.
► CUMBRANCE 1. a troubling or harassing; trouble; distress, annoyance → 1377 obs.
2. trouble of mind; perplexity → 1460 obs.
► CUMBROUSNESS a being troublesome, burdensome, or unwieldy → 1557 
► CURE trouble, care, anxiety → 1340 obs.
► DAILY DOUBLE trouble → 20C Brit. rhyming sl.
► DAMAGE trouble, a disadvantage, inconvenience → 1398 obs.
► DEAD trouble, problems → 20C W. Indies & Barbados sl.
► DEAD MEAT used for expressing a very high degree of trouble → 1974 US sl.
► DEAD TROUBLE deep trouble, an extremely difficult situation → 1971 UK sl.
► DEEP DOO-DOO serious trouble → 2009 Amer. sl. (Bk.)
► DERE trouble → 1460 arch.
► DERF trouble, tribulation, hurt → 1225 obs.
► DISTROUBLE trouble, disturbance, molestation → 1450 obs.
► DOUBLE-TROUBLE a very troublesome thing → 2006 US sl. (Bk.)
► DOUBLE WHAMMY a double portion of something troublesome → 2006 US sl. (Bk.)
► DUCK’S GUTS trouble → 1965 Barbados sl.
► FASH trouble, vexation; something that gives trouble → 1714 Sc. & Eng. dial.
► FASHERIE ► FASHERY trouble, annoyance, vexation, worry → 1553 Sc. & N. Eng. dial.
► FASHIOUSNESS troublesomeness → 1900 Sc. (Bk.)
► FASHMENT trouble, bother → 1900 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► FASHRIE trouble, worry, annoyance → 1660 Sc.
► FAUCHT ► FAUGHT a fight, a struggle, trouble, exertion → 1721 Sc. obs.
► FIKE trouble, care, worry, vexation → 1870 Sc. & Eng. dial.
► FIREWORKS trouble → 2006 US sl. (Bk.)
► FIX trouble, a difficult position → 1834 US sl.
► FOMENTARY something which incites trouble, discord, etc. → 1657 obs.
► FUSS AND PALAVER a troublesome or annoying complexity → 1892 
► GANK an unexpected trouble → 1768 Sc. obs.
► HACKLING a troubling, bothering, worrying → 1950 W. Indies Rasta
► HAG ► HAGG trouble, a worry, burden → 1905 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► HAIR IN ONE’S NECK, A a cause of trouble or annoyance → 1450 
► HARASS  great trouble, difficulty → 1876 Eng. dial.
► HARD CHANCE trouble, a difficult time → 1957 Amer. dial.
► HARD ROW OF STUMPS, A a troublesome or difficult situation → 1863 Amer. dial.
► HARD-SAILING trouble, misfortune → 1905 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► HARM grief, sorrow, pain, trouble, distress, affliction → 1000 obs.
► HARRISH trouble, distress, worry → 1902 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► HASSLE trouble or annoyance caused by having to do something difficult → 1945 
► HEART SCALD trouble, vexation, injury → 1813 Sc.
► HELL A-HOOTING trouble, turmoil, a row → 1972 Amer. dial.
► HELL A-WHOOPING trouble, turmoil, a row → 1968 Amer. dial.
► HELLHOLE a very hot place; a troublesome place → 1993 sl. (Bk.)
► HELL WITH THE HIDE OFF trouble, problems → 1961 Amer. dial.
► HOT SPOT a place of trouble → 1941 sl.
► ILLNESS troublesomeness, hurtfulness → 1595 obs.
► IMPORTUNITY trouble, burdensomeness → 1475 obs.
► JACKPOT trouble, a dilemma → 1887 US criminals’ sl.
► JOBLIJOCK domestic trouble → 19C Eng. dial.
► KEELICK trouble, anger, vexation → 1808 Sc. obs.
► KNEE DEEP the state one is in when the lies and boasting have accumulated considerably → M20 US sl.
► KNEE DEEP IN SHIT the state one is in when the lies and boasting have accumulated considerably → M20 US sl.
► MALEASE trouble, distress → 1300 obs.
► MANCH trouble, pains, bother → 1897 Eng. dial.
► MARREMENT trouble, affliction → 1390 obs.
► MAUNGE trouble, a blunder, a dilemma → 1876 Eng. dial.
► MENACE something very troublesome or annoying → 1936 sl.
► MEOW an expedition with the aim of causing trouble → 1990 US sl.
► MERRY HELL great trouble, upheaval, or disturbance → 1911 sl.
► MOIDERMENT worry, trouble, annoyance → 1905 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► MUSSING trouble, confusion; a fuss → 1846 
► NAP AND DOUBLE trouble → 1930 rhyming sl.
► NAUSEA trouble; a fuss → 1959 Brit. military usage
► NOISE serious trouble → 1966 US sl.
► OBTURBATION a troubling → 1623 obs.
► OIL trouble → 1934 Amer. sl.
► ONEROSITY the quality of being troublesome, burdensome or oppressive → 1874 
► OPPRESSURE the act of oppressing; oppression; distress, trouble → 1600 obs.
► PACKET trouble → 1910 sl., orig. military
► PADDY-NODDY  a state of trouble, agitation, and uneasiness → 19C Eng. dial.
► PAIN something very troublesome or annoying → 1910 sl.
► PAINFULNESS troublesomeness, difficulty → 1526 
► PAIN IN THE ARSE something very troublesome or annoying → 1934 sl.
► PAIN IN THE NECK something very troublesome or annoying → 1910 sl.
► PALAVER a troublesome or annoying complexity → 1892 
► PARANGLES  trouble and worry; any bothersome, complicated situation → 1940 W. Indies sl.
► PEDO trouble; nonsense → 1974 US sl.
► PISSER something very troublesome or annoying → 1943 sl., orig. US
► PURR a state of agitation or trouble → 1842 Eng. dial.
► QUEER STREET any trouble, difficulty, or fix, bad circumstances, debt, illness, etc. → 1837 sl.
► RAVE trouble, confusion → 19C Eng. dial.
► SALT trouble, annoyance, difficulties → 1950 African-American & W. Indies sl.
► SCALD trouble, vexation, injury; a disgust → 1813 Sc.
► SCHLEP ► SCHLEPP a troublesome business or a piece of hard work → 1964 sl., chiefly US
► SCROBBLE a state of trouble or difficulty; a ‘scrape’ → 1904 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► SHIT trouble → 1937 US sl.
► SITE  trouble of any kind → 1200 obs.
► SITHE trouble, mishap, misfortune → 1205 obs.
► STATIC trouble, harassment, complications → 1926 US sl.
► SWENCH affliction, trouble, trial; later, labour, toil → 1000 obs.
► SWINE a troublesome, difficult, unpleasant, or annoying thing or task → 1892 
► TARRIE trouble → 1870 Sc. obs.
► TERRIFY a source of worry or trouble → 1905 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► TEW  trouble; an annoyance, a worry or fretting; a state of anxiety, nervous excitement → 1864 Sc. & Eng. & Amer. dial.
► THIN CITY a troublesome situation → 1968 (Bk.)
► THOUGHT  a cause of trouble → 1899 Sc. & N. Eng. dial.
► THRALL trouble, worry → 1829 Sc. & Eng. dial.
► THREE KINDS OF SHIT a lot of trouble → 1995 Aust. sl.
► THRO struggle, contest; trouble → 1303 obs.
► THROW trouble, a reverse of fortune → 1835 Sc.
► THRUNG trouble → 1905 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► TINE trouble, affliction; sorrow → 1590 obs.
► TSURIS ► TSORIS ► TZURIS troubles; tribulations; anxieties → 1960
► UNSAUCHT trouble, disquietude → 1905 Sc. obs. (Bk.)
► UNSHIRTED HELL serious trouble, hell, misfortune → 1932 US sl.
► VEX  a trouble; a cause or state of vexation, annoyance, or worry → 1815 Sc.
► WANREST a state of inquietude or trouble; unrest → 1550 Sc. obs.
► WHAT-FOR trouble, punishment, a fuss → L19 sl.
► WHAT-SORT trouble, a punishment, a fuss → L19 sl.
► WORRIATION a worrying; a cause for worry, trouble, annoyance → 1854 Amer. dial.
► WORRIMENT trouble; harassing annoyance → 1984 Aust. colloq. (Bk.)

NOUNS – PERSON
► ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN a person likely to cause trouble or harm → 1920 
► ACTOR a troublemaker → 1964 
► APE a troublesome, mischievous child → 1898 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► BAD ACTOR an aggressive troublemaker; an habitual brawler → 1848 sl.
► BAD APPLE a troublesome or despicable person → 1962 
► BADASS a troublesome, cocky person → 1956 sl., orig. & chiefly US
► BAD-ASS NIGGER ► BAD-ASSED NIGGER a troublemaker; a mean person → 1900 African-American sl.
► BAD CROWD a troublemaker → 1883 US sl. 
► BADDER a troublesome person → 1825 Sc.
► BAD EGG a troublemaker → 1994 sl. (Bk.)
► BAD HAT a troublemaker → 1831 sl.
► BAD LOT a troublesome, reprehensible, dishonest person; a failure in life → 1848 sl.
► BAD NEWS a troublesome, threatening person → 1949 sl., orig. US
► BAG BITER a spoiler or troublemaker → 1982 political sl.
► BAGLE a troublesome person → 1882 Eng, dial. (Bk.)
► BAIT an individual who is likely to get into trouble or face unwanted attention → 1959 sl.
► BATHER a troublesome person → 1825 Sc.
► BEAGLE a troublesome, depraved, and unmanageable person → 1744 Eng. dial.
► BEDLAM a troublesome person → 1884 Eng. dial.
► BICHT a troublesome, cross, or ill-natured person → 1887 Sc. obs.
► BOWSER a troublesome character → 2000 Irish sl.
► CAMACHAL a troublesome boy → 1934 Sc.
► CARKER a peevish, troublesome child → 1898 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► COAL-BLOWER a person who stirs up or encourages conflict; a troublemaker or agitator → 1647
► DEVILING a troublesome, fretful woman → 1900 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► DEVIL’S BUCKIE a troublesome, mischievous person → 1816 Sc.
► DEVIL’S LIMB a troublesome, tiresome person → 1714 Sc.
► DEVIL’S OWN SORROW a troublesome person → 1887 Sc.
► DEVIL’S PETS a troublesome, tiresome person → 1856 Eng. dial.
► DOORKEEPER a person who is always ready to stir up trouble → 1966 Amer. dial.
► DOUBLE-TROUBLE a very troublesome person → 2006 US sl. (Bk.)
► EIGHT BALL 1. a troublemaker; a misfit → 1933 US sl.
2. a person who is continually getting into trouble → 1947 US Army sl. (Bk.)
► EYESORE a person whose presence is considered troublesome, offensive, or annoying → 1548 
► FARTLES a troublesome, inquisitive person → 1900 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► FASH a troublesome person; a human nuisance → 1808 Sc.
► FIK-MA-FYKE a troublesome, restless person; one busied with trifles → 1825 Sc.
► FILTY WAMLIN a troublesome person, esp. a child → 1911 Sc.
► GANGSTER a troublemaker; an aggressive, abusive person → 1982 African-American sl.
► GEE-ER a troublemaker; one who tells lies about another in order to provoke a fight → 1950 prison sl.
► GREMLIN a troublemaker who frequents the beaches but does not surf → 1965 surfing sl.
► GRIEVER a person who molests or troubles another; the causer of a grievance → 1598 obs.
► HEAVY FATHER a troublesome or evil friend → 1510 obs.
► HEAVY FRIEND a troublesome or evil friend → 1554 obs.
► HELLCAT a troublemaker; a devil-may-care person → 1899 Amer. dial.
► HELL ON WHEELS a very troublesome or annoying person → 1843 sl.
► HELL-RAISER a person likely to cause trouble and disturbance, esp. by an active and defiant spirit → 1914 US sl.
► HESSIAN a troublesome, unpleasant, or boorish person, esp. a woman → 1906 Amer. dial.
► HOLY TERROR a troublesome child → 1883 sl.
► HUSSIAN a troublesome, mischievous child → 1914 Amer. dial.
► INKLE-WEAVER a person who causes trouble → 1892 Eng. dial.
► JACK SPRAT a brat, a troublesome or annoying child → 1992 UK rhyming sl. for ‘brat’ 
► JACK-THE-LAD a troublemaker or rogue, esp. one regarded with both admiration and mistrust → 1981 Brit. colloq.
► LIVE ONE someone destined to cause trouble in any situation, usually challenging authority → 1970 sl.
► MAGGOT a troublesome child → 1923 Sc.
► MAKE-A-DO a troublemaker → 1590 obs.
► MAN A-HANGING a person in trouble → 1970 African-American sl.
► MASTER-DADDY a troublesome child, one who tries to get the upper hand → 1905 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► MENACE someone very troublesome or annoying → 1936 sl.
► MESS-UP a troublemaker or misfit → 1944 US sl.
► MISCHIEF a troublesome, mischievous person → 1825 Sc.  
► MIXER a troublemaker → 1938 sl.
► NANGNAIL a troublesome, ill-tempered person → 1856 Eng. dial.
► NING-NANG a troublesome or worthless → 1832 Eng. dial.
► NOINTER a scandalous or troublesome person → 1893 Aust. & Eng. dial.
► NUT a troublesome or unruly young man → 1882 Aust. colloq.
► OATMEAL an urban rowdy, an unruly person, a troublemaker, usually in a gang → 1639 sl.
► ONMARK a troublesome or refractory person → 1905 Sc. (Bk.)
► PAIN someone very troublesome or annoying → 1910 sl.
► PAIN IN THE ARSE ► PAIN IN THE ASS a troublesome or annoying person → 1934 colloq.
► PAIN IN THE NECK someone very troublesome or annoying → 1941 sl.
► PARCEL a troublesome, difficult person → 20C Irish sl.
► PEACEBREAKER a troublemaker; a disruptive person → 1873 Amer. dial.
► PEACE DISTURBER a troublemaker; a disruptive person → 1965 Amer. dial.
► PEB a troublesome person → 1903 Aust. sl.
► PEBBLE a troublesome or obstinate person → 1829 colloq., chiefly Aust.
► PERFORMER an habitually insubordinate or disruptive person; a troublemaker → 1937 sl., chiefly nautical usage
► PEST a very troublesome or annoying person → 1609 
► PICKLE a mischievous or troublesome child → L18 colloq.
► PISSER someone very troublesome or annoying → 1943 sl., orig. US
► RADICAL a troublesome boy → 1886 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► RED-NECK a person who causes trouble or creates chaos, esp. by wild or outrageous behaviour → 1967 (Bk.)
► ROTTEN APPLE a troublesome or despicable person → 1887 
► SEA LAWYER a troublemaker; a malcontent → 1910 Amer. World War I sl.
► SHIT DISTURBER a person who takes pleasure in causing trouble or discord; a troublemaker → 1961 Can. sl.
► SHIT-STIRRER a person who takes pleasure in causing trouble or discord → 20C sl.
► SKEESICKS ► SKEEZICKS ► SKEEZIX ► SKEEZUCKS a troublemaker → 1850 US sl.
► SNAFU one who is continually getting into trouble → 1947 US Army sl. (Bk.)
► STIRRER a troublemaker → 1963 sl.
► SWINE-DOG a troublesome, objectionable, or unpleasant person → 1909 
► SWINE-HOUND a troublesome, despicable, or unpleasant person → 1899 
► TACKHEAD a troublemaker → 1992 US sl.
► TACKLE a rather troublesome and quick child → 1880 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► TAID ► TOAD an objectionable, trouble-making person → 1793 Sc. 
► TARRAS a troublesome, mischievous lad → 1905 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► TASHEL ►TASSEL a troublesome child → 1790 Eng. dial.
► TEAZE-TRILL a troublesome fellow → 1828 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► TERROR a troublesome child → 1883 sl.
► TORMENT a person who causes trouble → 1784 
► UGLY CUSTOMER a person who is likely to cause trouble, or be difficult to deal with → 1811 
► VARMENT ► VARMINT a troublesome or objectionable person → 1773 
► YAP  a troublesome, crying child → 1905 N. Ireland & Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► YOUNG HESSIAN ► YOUNG HUSSIAN a troublesome, mischievous child → 1914 Amer. dial.
► YOUNG LIMB a troublesome child → 1891 sl. (Bk.)
► YOUNG RADICAL a troublesome young rascal → 1893 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► YOUNG TURK  a troublesome, destructive person → 1859 

VERBS
► ACT UP to cause someone trouble → 20C sl.
► AFFLIGE to trouble, to afflict; to torment → 1550 obs.
► AFFRET to trouble, to distress, to worry → 1600 obs.
► AGGRIEVE to bring trouble or grief to → 1325 
► AILD to trouble or upset → 1903 Amer. dial.
► ANNOY to trouble, to hurt, to damage → 1580 Eng. dial.
► ASK FOR IT to ask for trouble; to act in a way that invites trouble → 1900 Amer. sl.
► AWHENE to trouble, to vex → 1000  obs.
► BAIL ON ► BALE ON to trouble, to give a hard time to → 1960 US teen sl.
► BARBULYIE to trouble, to confuse → 1790 Sc.
► BEIL to give trouble or pain to → 1911 Sc. (Bk.)
► BE IN A HANK to be in a state of trouble or perplexity → 19C Eng. dial.
► BE IN ARSEHOLE STREET to be in serious trouble → 1950 sl.
► BE IN DEEP SHIT to be in trouble or difficulty → 1969 sl.
► BE IN LUMBER to be in trouble → 1819 
► BE IN NOISE to be in trouble → 1972 W. Indies sl.
► BE IN THE SHIT to be in trouble or difficulty → 1929 sl.
► BE UP CACK STREET to be in trouble → 20C Brit. sl.
► BOTHERATE to trouble, to bother → 1905 Amer. dial.
► BREED A BLACK EYE to stir up trouble (for oneself) → 1967 Amer. dial.
► BREED A SCAB to stir up trouble (for oneself → 1941 Amer. dial.
► BREED A SCAB ON ONE’S NOSE to stir up trouble (for oneself) → 1942 Amer. dial.
► BRING MUD to cause trouble → 1928 African-American sl.
► BUST to be in trouble → 20C teen & high school sl.
► BUY THE DICK to get into trouble → 1970 US sl.
► CADDLE to trouble, to disturb, to worry → 1781 Eng. dial.
► CARK to trouble, to harass, to vex → 1330 obs.
► CARRY A BIG SPOON to stir up trouble → 1989 Aust. sl.
► CATCH A COLD ► CATCH COLD to get into trouble, possibly through impetuousness → L18 sl.
► CATCH A PACKET to suffer trouble or misfortune → 1925 sl.
► CATCH A YANKEE to deal with someone or something that proves unexpectedly troublesome or powerful → 1996 Amer. dial. (Bk.)
► CATCH IT to get into trouble, usually with the implication of punishment → 1835 sl.
► CATCH IT IN THE NECK to get into trouble, usually with the implication of punishment → 1835 sl.
► CATCH ONE’S BALLS IN A WRINGER to find oneself in trouble → 1970
► CATCH ONE’S TIT IN A WRINGER to find oneself in trouble → 1970
► COME TO GRIEF to get into serious trouble → 1850 UK
► COP A PACKET to suffer trouble or misfortune → 1925 sl.
► COP IT to get into trouble, usually with the implication of punishment → 1909 Brit. sl.
► CUMBER to trouble, to harass, to distress → 1400 obs.
► DADDLE to trouble, bother, annoy, worry → 1900 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► DEAL to cause trouble for → 1920 African-American sl.
► DEAVE to trouble, bother → 1400 
► DIG UP THE TOMAHAWK to start trouble; to declare war → 1945 US Western usage (Bk.)
► DISCOMFUFFLE to trouble, to cause inconvenience → 1900 (Bk.)
► DISTROUBLE to trouble greatly → 1369 obs.
► DO SOMEONE A NASTY to do something unpleasant to someone; to cause someone trouble or problems → 1979 sl.
► DO SOMEONE MISCHIEF to cause trouble or harm to → 1385 
► DROP SOMEONE IN IT to cause trouble or harm to → 1991 sl.
► DROP SOMEONE IN THE SHIT to get someone blamed and into trouble → 2001 UK sl.
► DROP THE BUCKET ON SOMEONE to get someone into trouble → 1950 Aust. sl.
► DRUBBLE to trouble, to disturb → 1340 obs.
► DRUMBLE to trouble, to disturb, to confuse → 1637 Sc. & Eng. dial. obs.
► FALL IN THE SHIT to get into trouble; to find oneself in difficulties → 1870 colloq.
► FASH to trouble, to afflict, to annoy → 1533 chiefly Sc. & N. Eng. dial.
► FASH ONE’S BEARD to trouble, to concern, to vex oneself → 1789 Sc. & Eng. dial.
► FASH ONE’S HEAD to trouble, to concern, to vex oneself → 1790 Sc. & Eng. dial.
► FASH ONE’S NODDLE to trouble, to concern, to vex oneself → 1842 Sc.
► FASH ONE’S THUMB to trouble, to concern, to vex oneself → 1725 Sc. & Eng. dial.
► FATCH to trouble, to excite → 1874 
► FEAZE ► FEEZE ► PHEEZE to trouble, to vex, to faze → 1851 Amer. dial.
► FIKE to trouble, to vex, to perplex, to make uneasy → 1798 Sc.
► FUCK ABOUT ► FUCK AROUND to cause trouble or harm to → 1960 sl.
► GET A PACKET to get into trouble → 1930 sl.
► GET AMONG HOT WATER to get into trouble or difficulties → 1883 Sc.
► GET IN A TIGHT CRACK to get into trouble or difficulty → 1926 US sl.
► GET IN DUTCH to get into trouble → 2006 US sl. (Bk.)
► GET IN SOMEONE’S ASS to cause trouble for someone → 1966 US sl.
► GET IN WRONG to get oneself into trouble → 1910
► GET IT to get into trouble, usually with the implication of punishment → 1872 sl.
► GET IT HOT to get into trouble, usually with the implication of punishment → 1872 sl.
► GET IT IN THE NECK to get into trouble, usually with the implication of punishment → 1872 sl.
► GET ONE’S ASS IN A CRACK to get into trouble or difficulty → 1966 US sl.
► GET ONE’S TAIL IN A CRACK to get into trouble; to get oneself into a difficult situation → 1961 US sl.
► GET THINGS IN A HANK to be in a state of trouble or perplexity → 19C Eng. dial.
► GIVE A PERSON GYP  to cause trouble for, to irritate or distress → 1894 
► GIVE ONESELF ILL to trouble or distress oneself → 1300 obs.
► GIVE THE RUN-AROUND to cause trouble or harm to → 1924 sl., orig. US
► GO ASKEW to be troublesome, to do wrong actions → 1885 Eng. dial.
► GOOF ONESELF to get into trouble → 1940 sl.
► GO TO HELL IN A HANDBAG to be heading for trouble → 1987 Amer. dial.
► GRUE to feel terror or horror, to shudder, to tremble; to quake; to be troubled in heart → 1330 Sc. & N. Eng. dial.
► HACKLE to trouble, to bother, to worry → 1950 W. Indies Rasta
► HARRISH to trouble, to harass, to worry → 1843 Ireland & Eng. dial.
► HASSLE to cause trouble or harm to → 1959 
► HAVE A FACE ON ONE to be in a troubled, nervous mood → 1988 
► HAVE A PACKET to get into trouble → 1930 sl.
► HAVE COCOBAY ON TOP OF YAWS to add new troubles to a situation that seemed bad enough already → 20C W. Indies sl.
► HAVE ONE’S ASS IN A SLING to be in trouble; to be in an unfortunate predicament → 1960 US sl.
► HAVE THE PORK to be in trouble → 1979 Amer. dial.
► HELL AROUND to go around making trouble or noise → 2006 US sl. (Bk.)
► HOLD ONTO YOUR HAT to get ready for trouble → 1970
► ICE to cause trouble for, to harm → 1970 sl.
► IMPEACH to trouble oneself → 1484 obs.
► IMPORTUNE  to be troublesome or wearisome to; to trouble, to worry, to pester, to annoy → 1578 obs.
► JAG to trouble, to vex, to irritate, to annoy → 1888 Eng. dial.
► LAG to cause trouble for → M19 UK criminals’ sl.
► LAND IN THE SHIT to get someone blamed and into trouble → 1984 UK sl.
► LEAD ONE A CHASE to give a pursuer trouble by one’s speed or circuitous course → 1861 
► LEAD ONE A DANCE to put to the trouble of hurrying from place to place → 1607 
► LUMBER to get someone into trouble or difficulties → 1642 
► MAKE A ROD FOR ONESELF to act in a way that will bring one trouble later → 20C 
► MAKE A ROD FOR ONE’S OWN BACK to act in a way that will bring one trouble later → 20C 
► MAKE HAY to cause confusion, disorder, trouble → 1863 colloq.
► MAKE THE FUR FLY to cause serious trouble → 1834 sl.
► MAKE WAVES to cause trouble → 1962 sl., orig. US
► MANCH to trouble, to bother, to take pains → 1897 Eng. dial.
► MAR to trouble, to perplex → 1300 obs.
► MESS OVER to cause trouble or pain for → 1968 Amer. dial.
► MISMAKE to trouble, to disturb → 1825 
► MISMOVE to trouble, to disturb → 1836 
► MOLESTATE to trouble, to harass → 1543 obs.
► NUSSLAP to cause trouble for someone, to harm → 2000 African-American sl.
► OBTURB to trouble → 1623 obs.
► OPPRESS to trouble, to molest, to harass, to distress → 1382 obs.
► PAIL to trouble; to harass, to weary → 1905 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► PERTROUBLE to perturb, to trouble greatly → 1470 chiefly Sc., obs.
► PLAY HELL WITH ► PLAY MERRY HELL WITH to cause trouble or harm to → 1803 sl.
► PLAY OLD BOGUY to cause trouble to ‘play the devil’ → 1901 sl.
► PLAY OLD GOOSEBERRY to cause trouble to ‘play the devil’ → 1788 sl.
► PLAY OLD HARRY to cause trouble to ‘play the devil’ → 1819 sl.
► PUKE SOMEONE OFF  to cause trouble for → 1960 sl.
► PULL AN OLD HOUSE ON ONE’S HEAD to get oneself into trouble → 1811 obs.
► PUT ONE’S WEIGHTS UP to cause trouble deliberately → 1920 NZ sl.
► PUT THE CAT AMONG THE PIGEONS to cause trouble → 1976 sl.
► PUT THE NADGERS ON to jinx, to cause trouble for, to hex → 1984 sl. (Bk.)
► QUEER to cause trouble for → 1910 US sl.
► QUEER THE GAME to cause trouble for someone → L18 US criminals’ sl.
► RAG  to cause trouble, to attack → 20C sl.
► RAISE AN ANTS’ NEST to make trouble, to foster an argument → 20C W. Indies sl.
► RAISE BLAZES to cause a good deal of trouble deliberately; to make a fuss → M19 sl., orig. US
► RAISE CAIN to make a lot of trouble → 20C 
► RAISE HADES to cause a good deal of trouble deliberately; to make a fuss → M19 sl., orig. US
► RAISE HECK to cause a good deal of trouble deliberately; to make a fuss → M19 sl., orig. US
► RAISE HELL to make a lot of trouble → 20C 
► RAISE HOB to cause as much trouble as one can → 1910 US sl.
► RAISE MERRY HELL to cause trouble, upheaval, or a disturbance → 1911 sl.
► RAISE MERRY NED to create trouble, a commotion, or disturbance → 1906 Amer. dial.
► RAISE NED to cause a disturbance, to make trouble → 1849 Amer. dial.
► RAISE NEDDY-JINGO to create trouble, a commotion, or disturbance → 1958 Amer. dial.
► RAISE OLD HARRY to cause a disturbance, to make trouble → 1929 sl.
► RAISE OLD NED to cause a disturbance, to make trouble → 1859 Amer. dial.
► RAISE OLD NICK to cause a disturbance, to make trouble → 1862 sl.
► RAISE PROMISCUOUS NED to create trouble, a commotion, or disturbance → 1848 Amer. dial.
► RAISE SAND to start trouble → 1945 US Western sl. (Bk.)
► RAISE SHIT to cause trouble, to make a fuss → 1990 US sl.
► RAISE THE DEVIL  to create trouble, uproar, or confusion → 1841 
► RAISE THE MISCHIEF  to create trouble, uproar, or confusion → 1865 
► RAMP to make trouble → 1812 UK sl.
► ROCK THE BOAT to cause trouble; to create a disturbance in the existing situation → 1931 colloq.
► SALT UP to cause trouble for; to place in a difficult or embarrassing situation → 1980 US students’ sl.
► SCALD to trouble, to pain, to vex → 1877 Sc.
► SCALD THE HEART to trouble, to pain, to vex → 1877 Sc.
► SET THE CAT AMONG THE PIGEONS to cause trouble → 1976 sl.
► SIG to cause trouble; to stir things up, often purely for fun, whatever the actual results → 1930 African-American sl.
► SIGNIFY to stir up trouble → 1929 African-American
► SMACK A BLUE to strike trouble → 1999 Aust. sl. (Bk.)
► SOW DRAGONS’ TEETH to stir up trouble, strife, or war → 1850 
► STEP ON ONE’S COCK to get oneself into trouble; to make a fool of oneself → 2009 Amer. sl. (Bk.)
► STIR to cause trouble → 1969 sl.
► STOOK to stir up trouble → 20C S. Afr. sl.
► STROUBLE to disturb, to trouble → 1384 obs.
► STURB to disturb, to trouble, to upset → 1225 obs.
► STURBLE to trouble, to disturb → 1303 obs.
► STURT 1. to attack, to trouble, to molest, to disturb → 1513 Sc.
2. to contend, to make trouble with → 1535 obs.
► SUCK CANAL WATER to be in trouble, to be in a bad situation → 1970 US Army sl.
► SWENCH to trouble, to harass, to afflict a person → 1000 obs.
► SWERK to be or become dark; to become gloomy, troubled, or sad → 1000 obs.
► SYTE FOR to be troubled or anxious about something → 1400 obs.
► TAKE A SHIT to cause trouble for, to attack → 1960 sl.
► TAKE CARE OF to cause trouble for → 1950 sl.
► TEAR ONE’S ASS to get into trouble → 1750 sl. 
► TEAR ONE’S ASSHOLE to get into trouble → 1961 sl.
► TEEN to trouble, to vex → 19C Sc. & Eng. dial.
► TEW to trouble, to harass, to bother → 1824 Sc. & Eng. dial.
► TEW ONE’S SHIRT to trouble oneself → 1905 Eng. dial. (Bk.)
► THRONG to trouble oneself → 1885 Eng. dial.
► THROW A MONKEY WRENCH INTO THE MACHINERY 1907 – to cause trouble or confusion; to interfere disruptively
► TIRE ONE’S HEART OUT to be very troublesome and importunate → 1876 Eng. dial.
► TO-TROUBLE to trouble greatly, to afflict severely → 1382 obs.
► WAKE SNAKES to cause trouble or disturbance; to get oneself into trouble → 1848 Amer. sl.
► WEASELWORD to talk one’s way out of trouble, usually by talking nonsense in such a way that it appears pertinent → 1984 Aust. colloq. (Bk.)
► YARR to be troublesome and captious → 1778 obs. exc. Eng. dial.