an increase in intensity, seriousness, or severity; act of making worse

an aggravation of pain.

the state of being aggravated.

something that causes an increase in intensity, degree, or severity.

annoyance; exasperation

Johnny causes me so much aggravation!

a source or cause of annoyance or exasperation

Johnny's such an aggravation to her!

noun

affliction , aggro , bother , botheration , difficulty , distress , exasperation , hang-up * , headache * , irksomeness , irritation , pain , pain in the neck * , pet peeve * , provocation , teasing , vexation , worry , condition deepening , exacerbation , exaggeration , heightening , increase , inflaming , inflammation , intensification , magnification , sharpening , strengthening , worsening , besetment , irritant , nuisance , peeve , plague , torment