nettle
UK[ˈnetl]US[ˈnetl]
n
A wild plant with leaves that have hairs that sting and cause red spots on the skin.
v
To make someone annoyed or irritated.
Etymology
The word 'nettle' has a deep-rooted history in the Germanic languages, tracing back to the Proto-Germanic natilō. This term is itself derived from the Proto-Indo-European root ned-, meaning "to twist, to knot," which is also the ancestor of the word 'net.' The semantic connection is thought to lie in the plant's fibrous stems, which were historically used for cordage and weaving, much like net-making materials. Over time, the name became fixed on the plant itself, and its stinging property gave rise to the figurative verb sense "to irritate or provoke," drawing a parallel between physical and emotional discomfort.
Analysis
The word 'nettle' is a simplex word of Germanic origin. It functions as a complete lexical unit.
Examples
I brushed against a nettle and my arm started to sting.
His patronizing comments never failed to nettle her.
The field was overgrown with docks and nettles.