Ornery

usgb/ˈɔːrnəri/
adjective

Someone who is angry, grumpy, or stubborn.

My grandfather is an ornery old man who refuses to take his medication.
Visual representation of "ornery" - Someone who is angry, grumpy, or stubborn

Often appears as...

  • ornery old man
  • ornery and stubborn

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "ornery"
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Usually Negative

Ornery often implies a negative judgment and may offend if used to describe people directly.

Illustration for Usually Negative
He's been acting ornery since the morning.
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Colloquial Usage

Most common in casual conversation, not in formal writing or speeches.

Illustration for Colloquial Usage
That ornery kid is always causing trouble.
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Emotional State

Ornery often describes someone's temporary mood or attitude rather than a permanent trait.

Illustration for Emotional State
She's just ornery because she's tired.
Visual representation of the word "Ornery"

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