Pettish

usgb/ˈpetɪʃ/
adjective

Acting in an irritable or impatient way, especially over small matters.

He became pettish when he didn't get his way in the game.
Visual representation of "pettish" - Acting in an irritable or impatient way, especially over small matters

Often appears as...

  • become pettish
  • grow pettish

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "pettish"
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Slight Irritation

'Pettish' implies a minor annoyance or irritability, not extreme anger.

Illustration for Slight Irritation
She responded in a pettish tone, clearly annoyed by the trivial interruption.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Common Misuse

Do not confuse 'pettish' with 'petty.' 'Pettish' describes behavior, 'petty' often describes actions or things.

Illustration for Common Misuse
His pettish behavior at the party was due to unimportant reasons, but it wasn't right to call his concerns petty.
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Mood Context

Use 'pettish' to describe temporary moods or attitudes, not someone’s overall personality.

Illustration for Mood Context
After missing her coffee, she was pettish all morning but returned to her cheerful self by lunchtime.
Visual representation of the word "Pettish"

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