The verb vex has 5 senses (first 1 from tagged texts)
1. (1) annoy, rag, get to, bother, get at, irritate, rile, nark, nettle, gravel, vex, chafe, devil -- (cause annoyance in; disturb, especially by minor irritations; "Mosquitoes buzzing in my ear really bothers me"; "It irritates me that she never closes the door after she leaves")
2. worry, vex -- (disturb the peace of mind of; afflict with mental agitation or distress; "I cannot sleep--my daughter's health is worrying me")
3. agitate, vex, disturb, commove, shake up, stir up, raise up -- (change the arrangement or position of)
4. vex -- (subject to prolonged examination, discussion, or deliberation; "vex the subject of the death penalty")