Definition of: rankle

(rang′kəl) v. ·kled, ·kling v.i.
1. To cause continued resentment, sense of injury, etc.: The defeat rankles in his breast.
2. To become irritated or inflamed; fester.
—v.t.
3. To irritate; embitter. [<OF rancler, alter. of draoncler fester <Med. L dracunculus, dim. of draco dragon]