Peevish: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to describe someone who is easily annoyed or irritated over minor issues. It often implies a sense of childishness or petulance.

• Don't be so peevish about the weather; we can't control it.
• After a long day's work, she was feeling peevish and snapped at her family over small things.

Generally used to describe someone who is easily annoyed or angered. It can be used in both serious and casual contexts, and it often suggests a temporary state of being.

• She became irritable from lack of sleep.
• John's irritable reaction was surprising, given how mild-mannered he usually is.

Often employed to describe someone who is in a bad mood or easily upset, especially in a way that may come off as unreasonable or ill-tempered.

• The baby gets cranky if she misses her nap.
• I get a bit cranky when I haven't had my morning coffee.

Used to describe someone who is consistently or frequently in a bad mood. It often has a slightly humorous or endearing connotation.

• My grandpa gets grumpy if you wake him up too early.
• He was as grumpy as a bear when he couldn't find his car keys.

Used to describe someone who is easily annoyed or irritated, often over small matters.

• He's always peevish when he doesn't get enough sleep.
• Her peevish behavior made it hard to work with her.

Describes someone, especially a child, who behaves in a selfish and bad-tempered way, often when they do not get what they want. This word has a negative connotation.

• The petulant child threw a tantrum because he couldn't have another cookie.
• Her petulant attitude made the meeting uncomfortable for everyone.

Refers to someone who is silent and bad-tempered, usually because they are upset or disgruntled. This behavior is often seen as childish.

• After losing the game, he sat in the corner looking sulky.
• She became sulky when her plans were canceled at the last minute.

Describes someone who complains a lot in an irritating or childish way, often sounding high-pitched and persistent.

• Her whiny voice made it difficult to stay patient.
• The children were whiny because they were tired and hungry.