Rub the wrong way WSJ Crossword Clue

By Narcissa Kh Date: JAN 5, 2026 Follow on Google

Crossword Answer

Click ? to reveal letters one by one before showing the full answer.

Need a Hint? Try Solving It Yourself First

Use our Hints & Tips to uncover the answer.

Hint 1

hint

Hint 2

meaning

Hint 3

explanation

Clue History: Rub the wrong way

Complete History & Past Answers

Answer Letters Puzzle

IRK

NYT Midi Crossword - June 26 2026

IRK

WSJ Crossword - January 5 2026

Q1.

What is the most likely answer for the crossword clue "Rub the wrong way"?

The most common and recent 3-letter answer for "Rub the wrong way" is IRK.

Q2.

Why is "IRK" the answer to the clue "Rub the wrong way"?

The phrase 'rub the wrong way' is an idiom meaning to annoy or irritate someone. The answer 'IRK' is a synonym for annoy, fitting the context of the clue perfectly.

Q3.

In which puzzle was the clue "Rub the wrong way" last seen?

This clue was last seen in the WSJ Crossword on January 05, 2026.

Q4.

What does the word "IRK" mean in this context?

Irk means to annoy or irritate someone.

Q5.

What are some other crossword clues that share the same answer?

Aggravate, Nettle, Vex, Gall, Vex

The clue “Rub the wrong way” is a classic crossword staple, frequently appearing in puzzles like the WSJ crossword. For the puzzle dated January 5 2026, the definitive 3-letter answer is: IRK.

Expert Tip: When you’re stuck, try to analyze the structure of the clue itself. Is it a direct definition, a pun, a fill-in-the-blank, or a pop culture reference? Identifying the type of clue you’re dealing with is a key skill for improving your solving speed.

Finished the WSJ Puzzle? Check out this link for future puzzles:

WSJ Crossword Answers

Play the Official Game

Play Online in Wall Street Journal