Tetchiness: meaning, definitions and examples

Tetchiness is often used when someone is easily annoyed or slightly bad-tempered, especially in a minor or transient situation.

• Her tetchiness was evident when she snapped at John for the smallest mistake.
• He showed some tetchiness after missing breakfast and not having his morning coffee.

Irritability describes a state where someone is easily irritated or annoyed. It is commonly used to describe a persistent mood, often linked with physical discomfort or stress.

• Lack of sleep can lead to increased irritability.
• Her constant irritability was a sign that she needed a vacation.

Testiness refers to someone who gets angry or annoyed easily. It is often used to describe a cranky or combative demeanor, usually in short bouts.

• The testiness in his voice made the room go silent.
• She answered with testiness, obviously frustrated by the repeated questions.

Touchiness refers to being overly sensitive to criticism or perceived slights, often resulting in defensive or hostile reactions.

• His touchiness made it difficult to discuss any improvements to his work.
• You should be careful with your words around her; she has a certain touchiness about her past.

Describes a state of being easily annoyed or irritated, often in a short-term context.

• His tetchiness was evident as he snapped at every little comment.
• After a long flight, her tetchiness was understandable.

Used to describe a more intense and enduring form of irritability and quickness to anger, often implying a negative personality trait.

• His irascibility made it difficult for him to maintain friendships.
• She was known for her irascibility, always ready to snap at the slightest provocation.

Often used in a casual or informal setting to describe someone who is in a bad mood and easily aggravated.

• Don't mind his crabbiness; he's just having a rough morning.
• Her crabbiness usually goes away after a cup of coffee.

Typically used in a light-hearted or affectionate manner to describe someone who is in a bad mood, often due to tiredness or other minor reasons.

• His grumpiness in the morning is legendary.
• The team's grumpiness was obvious after losing the game.