Grumpy
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Easily annoyed or irritable; having a bad-tempered disposition.
- In a mood of sulkiness or dissatisfaction, often showing signs of irritability.
- Displaying a short temper or being unpleasant to interact with.
History and Origin
The word “grumpy” is believed to have originated in the early 19th century. It is likely derived from the word grump, which means a grouchy or sulky person. Grump itself comes from the Middle English word grumpen, meaning to scowl or frown. Over time, the term evolved to describe a person who is frequently irritable or moody.
Detailed Explanation
“Grumpy” describes a person who is often in a bad mood and easily annoyed, even by small or trivial things. Someone who is grumpy may appear irritated, sulky, or unhappy, and may show their frustration through body language or verbal expressions. Grumpiness can be temporary, such as when someone wakes up on the wrong side of the bed, or it can be a longer-lasting trait if the person has a generally irritable personality. While “grumpy” is typically used in informal contexts, it can describe both minor irritability and more severe anger in different situations.
Example Sentences
- He was feeling grumpy after a long day at work and didn’t want to talk to anyone.
- The children were grumpy because they had to wake up early for school.
- She gave a grumpy response when asked if she wanted to go out.
- After missing his morning coffee, he became noticeably grumpy.
- He has a grumpy nature and often snaps at others for no reason.
- Despite his grumpy exterior, he was kind-hearted deep down.
- She was grumpy when her plans were disrupted by bad weather.
- The dog looked grumpy after being scolded for chewing on the furniture.
- His grumpy mood improved once he had some time to relax.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Irritable – Easily annoyed or upset.
- Cranky – Bad-tempered, especially in a way that seems to affect one’s mood continuously.
- Testy – Easily angered or upset, often in a way that shows impatience.
- Moody – Prone to frequent changes in mood, particularly irritability.
- Surly – Bad-tempered and unfriendly in behavior or speech.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Grouchy – Similar to grumpy, referring to a tendency to complain or be irritable.
- Sullen – Gloomy or silent, often due to a bad mood.
- Fussy – Easily upset or hard to please, often related to irritability.
- Petulant – Childishly sulky or bad-tempered, showing irritability without reason.
- Disgruntled – Displeased or dissatisfied, often in a grumpy or complaining way.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Crabbed – Grumpy or irritable, often used to describe someone who is difficult to please.
- Grumpy cat – A popular internet meme associated with a cat known for its grumpy appearance.
- Grumble – To complain or express dissatisfaction in a low, muttering way.
- Bad-tempered – Frequently angry or easily upset.
- Tetchy – Easily irritated or prone to being grumpy.
Antonyms
- Cheerful
- Happy
- Content
- Optimistic
- Pleasant