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Peeved: meaning, definitions and examples

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peeved

 

[ piːvd ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

feeling annoyed

Peeved refers to the state of being annoyed or irritated. It is often used in informal contexts to describe a mild level of displeasure or frustration. The term conveys a sense of being slightly upset, rather than being extremely angry.

Synonyms

annoyed, irritated, miffed, vexed

Examples of usage

  • She was peeved when he forgot her birthday.
  • I'm a bit peeved about the change in plans.
  • They got peeved at the constant delays.

Etymology

The word 'peeved' is derived from the earlier form 'peeve,' which is thought to come from the Scottish word 'peevish,' meaning 'ill-tempered or irritable.' 'Peeve' first appeared in print in the early 20th century and served as a colloquial term for annoyance, gaining popularity in casual speech. The adjective 'peeved' thus reflects a more informal and relatable way to express mild annoyance. Its usage signifies a sentiment that is relatable in everyday interactions, often conveying that the speaker feels a little miffed but not outrageously upset. Over time, 'peeved' has become a common term in English vernacular, particularly in informal settings, as people look for succinct ways to express their annoyance.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,368 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.