What does the verb 'rankle' mean?

The verb 'rankle' means to irritate or cause persistent annoyance or anger. It often refers to feelings or situations that continue to cause discomfort or resentment over time. When something rankles, it is not just a fleeting annoyance; it can linger and create ongoing emotional turmoil. In this context, choosing the meaning related to irritation captures the essence of how the word is commonly used.

For instance, if a person feels wronged by a comment or action, that situation might rankle them, leading to frustration or irritation that does not easily fade. The other options—appease, excite, and pacify—represent actions that either soothe or stir positive emotions, which do not align with the idea of discomfort or annoyance that 'rankle' conveys.