Cantankerous

usgb/kænˈtæŋkərəs/
adjective

Being bad-tempered, grumpy, or argumentative.

My grandfather can be quite cantankerous if he hasn't had his morning coffee.
Visual representation of "cantankerous" - Being bad-tempered, grumpy, or argumentative

Often appears as...

  • cantankerous old man
  • cantankerous mood

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "cantankerous"
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Negative Connotation

Cantankerous implies strong disapproval and shouldn't be used flippantly.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The cantankerous landlord scared all the tenants.
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Non-Physical Context

Use it to describe behavior or personality, not physical objects.

Illustration for Non-Physical Context
During the negotiations, his cantankerous demeanor was off-putting.
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Typically Informal

Though not slang, 'cantankerous' suits casual or literary speech more than formal writing.

Illustration for Typically Informal
The book's cantankerous hero became a fan favorite.
Visual representation of the word "Cantankerous"

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