Grouchiness: meaning, definitions and examples

When someone is constantly complaining or in a bad mood, usually in a mild and sometimes humorous way.

• His constant grouchiness was both annoying and amusing to his friends

When describing someone who is easily annoyed or angered, especially more serious or ongoing irritation that might stem from stress or frustration.

• Work-related stress was a major cause of her persistent irritability

When someone is irritable or in a bad mood, often temporarily due to lack of sleep, hunger, or discomfort.

• The baby’s crankiness was due to teething pains

When someone is in a bad mood and showing irritation in their behavior or speech, typically in a light-hearted manner.

• His morning grumpiness usually wore off after his first cup of coffee

This is a duplicate and the same context applies as above.

• He woke up with a sense of grouchiness this morning and snapped at everyone during breakfast

Best used when referring to the general tendency to become annoyed or angry easily. It’s a more formal and neutral term.

• His iritableness has increased since he started his stressful new job

Used when describing a state of irritability, especially in children or when someone is tired or unwell. It’s less negative and often temporary.

• The baby’s crankiness was clearly due to needing a nap

Appropriate for describing someone who is temporarily grumpy or irritable, often due to specific reasons like lack of sleep or hunger.

• Her crabbiness is understandable, considering she hasn't eaten all day