Crabbily Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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crabbily

[หˆkrรฆbษ™li ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

mood description

Crabbily describes an attitude or behavior characterized by irritability or a bad temper. When someone acts crabbily, they often display a grumpy or cranky demeanor, making interactions with others challenging. This term is often used to describe how a person responds to situations that frustrate or annoy them. It conveys a sense of being short-tempered or easily annoyed, often without a substantial reason.

Synonyms

crossly, grumpily, irritably, testily.

Examples of usage

  • She answered crabbily when asked about her day.
  • He crabbily refused to help with the chores.
  • The teacher spoke crabbily after a long day.
  • He was crabbily dismissive of her suggestions.

Translations

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Origin of 'crabbily'

The word 'crabbily' is derived from the base word 'crabby', which originated in the early 19th century. The term 'crabby' itself comes from the noun 'crab', which is often associated with the crustacean known for its sideways movement and defensive nature. Linguistically, 'crabby' may have evolved from the notion of being crabby or irritable like the animal. The suffix '-ly' is added to form the adverb, indicating the manner in which someone acts or behavesโ€”specifically, in a manner similar to that of a crab, characterized by irritation or ill-temper. Over the years, the usage of 'crabbily' in English literature and conversation has become more pronounced, often encapsulating a mood that resonates with frustrations in day-to-day life.