headache
The word evokes a sensation of pressure, throbbing, or constriction. It is the standard term for cranial pain, ranging from a mild nuisance to a debilitating medical condition. It carries a visceral quality of mental fatigue or physical stress.
When used figuratively, it describes a situation that is frustratingly complex or tedious. It suggests a problem that cannot be solved quickly and requires a draining amount of mental effort, similar to how a physical headache makes it hard to concentrate.
Countable when referring to a specific episode of pain or a distinct problematic task. Uncountable when discussing the general condition of suffering from head pain.
Meanings
A cause of annoyance or difficulty.
The new tax law is a real headache for small business owners.
Examples
This is a headache.