Quarrelsomely: meaning, definitions and examples
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quarrelsomely
[ ˈkwɔːr.əl.sə.mli ]
describing behavior
Quarrelsomely refers to a manner that is characterized by a tendency to argue or cause disputes. It describes actions or reactions that provoke disagreements and conflicts.
Synonyms
argumentatively, belligerently, contentiously, disputatiously.
Examples of usage
- She spoke quarrelsomely about her colleagues, stirring trouble in the office.
- The children quarrelsomely fought over the last piece of cake.
- He quarrelsomely challenged every suggestion made in the meeting.
- They quarrelsomely debated the rules of the game.
- The cat hissed quarrelsomely when the dog approached.
Etymology
The word 'quarrelsomely' is derived from the adjective 'quarrelsome,' which dates back to the late 14th century. The root 'quarrel' itself stems from the Middle English word 'quarrel,' meaning a dispute or argument, which traces further back to Old French 'querelle,' derived from the Latin 'querela,' meaning a complaint or lamentation. The transformation from 'quarrel' to 'quarrelsome' added the suffix '-some,' indicating a propensity or tendency to engage in quarrels. The adverbial form 'quarrelsomely' was formed by attaching '-ly' to 'quarrelsome,' much like many English adverbs that describe the manner of an action. The evolution of this word captures the social nature of conflict and communication throughout history, reflecting human interactions that frequently involve disagreement.