Pet peeves

Posted by Bob July 08, 2000In reply to Pet peeves posted by Charles on July 08, 2000

What is the meaning and origin of the phrase "pet peeve?"

The meaning is a personal annoyance. "Pet" as in subjectively specific to a person, not a widely-held social convention. "Peeve" as in something which upsets someone very mildly. Scratching in public might be a pet peeve, warfare would not. Don't have a clue as to origin.