Cranky: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used to describe someone who is easily annoyed or slightly ill-tempered. This term is commonly used in informal settings.

• He missed his nap and was very cranky all afternoon
• She's a bit cranky in the morning before she has her coffee

Commonly used to describe a temporary bad mood, often due to tiredness or minor annoyances. This is often used in a light-hearted or affectionate manner.

• She's always grumpy before lunch
• He was grumpy because he had to work late

Refers to someone who easily gets annoyed or upset. This is a more clinical or formal term that may be used to describe a mood disorder or sensitivity.

• She becomes irritable when she is stressed
• The medication made him feel irritable

Describes someone whose moods change frequently and unpredictably. This can be used to discuss both positive and negative mood shifts.

• He's so moody; you never know what kind of response you'll get
• She's been moody lately, going from happy to sad in seconds

Describes someone who is difficult and argumentative. This word has a stronger negative connotation and is often used for older individuals or those perceived to be frequently complaining or uncooperative.

• The cantankerous old man yelled at the kids for playing outside
• Dealing with the cantankerous neighbor was a daily challenge

When someone is irritable or easily annoyed, often due to tiredness or stress.

• The baby is cranky because she didn't get enough sleep.
• After working long hours, John can get a little cranky.

Describes a device or system that is not working as intended, often used in a technical or mechanical context.

• The machine is malfunctioning, and we need to repair it.
• If the laptop keeps malfunctioning, we'll need to call IT.

Used to describe something that is not working correctly or has defects.

• The product was returned because it was faulty.
• We had to replace the faulty wiring in the house.

Refers to something or someone that behaves unpredictably or inconsistently, often with a suggestion of being difficult to manage.

• Her car is very temperamental and often refuses to start.
• The software can be temperamental, sometimes crashing unexpectedly.