the act of harassing someone playfully or maliciously (especially by ridicule); provoking someone with persistent annoyances
"he ignored their teases"
"his ribbing was gentle but persistent"
The act of teasing; making fun of or making light of.
"Her constant joking about his height was just harmless teasing, but he still got embarrassed every time she said it aloud."
present participle of tease
"The children were laughing as the cat chased its tail, completely unaware that it was just teasing itself for fun."
causing irritation or annoyance
"tapping an annoying rhythm on his glass with his fork"
"aircraft noise is particularly bothersome near the airport"
"found it galling to have to ask permission"
"an irritating delay"
"nettlesome paperwork"
"a pesky mosquito"
"swarms of pestering gnats"
"a plaguey newfangled safety catch"
"a teasing and persistent thought annoyed him"
"a vexatious child"
"it is vexing to have to admit you are wrong"