bugging
In a social context, this term describes a persistent, irritating form of pestering. It carries a connotation of repetitive, small-scale annoyance rather than a single large conflict, often used in casual or familial settings to describe someone who will not stop asking for something.
In a security or legal context, the term refers to clandestine surveillance. This usage is highly specific to espionage and criminal investigations, evoking an image of hidden technology and a breach of privacy. When used as a noun, it refers to the process or the state of being monitored by such devices.
Meanings
Annoying or irritating someone persistently with requests, questions, or behavior.
My younger brother keeps bugging me to lend him my car for the weekend.
Installing a hidden microphone or electronic surveillance device in a place or on a person to secretly listen to their communications.
The intelligence agency was caught bugging the embassy's private quarters.