Crosspatch: meaning, definitions and examples

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crosspatch

 

[ ˈkrɔːspætʃ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

disagreement, conflict

A crosspatch is a person who is prone to quarreling or displays a bad temper. This term is often used to describe someone who is irritable and difficult to deal with, typically for petty reasons. It can refer to a person who is generally argumentative or easily upset over minor issues. Originating from the phrase 'cross patch,' the word conveys a sense of inconsistency in mood, making interactions challenging. The crosspatch often makes it hard for others to maintain a harmonious relationship.

Synonyms

curmudgeon, grouch, grump.

Examples of usage

  • The crosspatch at the party snapped at everyone who tried to talk to him.
  • Despite her many good qualities, her tendency to be a crosspatch often alienated her friends.
  • He was known as a crosspatch in the office, always grumpy over small matters.

Translations

Translations of the word "crosspatch" in other languages:

🇵🇹 crosspatch

🇮🇳 crosspatch

🇩🇪 Querulant

🇮🇩 crosspatch

🇺🇦 недоброзичлива людина

🇵🇱 zrzędliwiec

🇯🇵 不平者

🇫🇷 râleur

🇪🇸 quejica

🇹🇷 şikayetçi

🇰🇷 불평꾼

🇸🇦 مُتَذَمِّر

🇨🇿 frfňal

🇸🇰 frflajúci

🇨🇳 抱怨的人

🇸🇮 sitnar

🇮🇸 kvörtur

🇰🇿 наразылық білдіруші

🇬🇪 ბოროტი

🇦🇿 şikayətçi

🇲🇽 quejumbroso

Etymology

The term 'crosspatch' stems from the combination of 'cross,' meaning angry or irritable, and 'patch,' suggesting a person or a character. The use of 'cross' to denote a bad mood or temperament dates back to Old English, while 'patch' refers to a specific type of person or character trait. The word was commonly used in literary contexts and drama to depict certain characters who were habitually cantankerous or irritable. Over time, crosspatch evolved to represent anyone with a quick temper or a disposition towards petty conflicts, reflecting a social critique of those who bring tension into otherwise peaceful situations. Its usage remains somewhat informal and is often employed humorously to describe someone with an overly serious or difficult attitude.