peevish
Lack of sleep leaves him feeling peevish and impatient.
Not getting enough sleep makes him easily irritated and short-tempered.
Easily annoyed, short-tempered, or bad-tempered, particularly about small or trivial matters.
She gives a peevish response whenever someone asks about her delay.
She gives an irritated, snappy answer whenever someone asks why she was late.
Often describes a person's temporary mood, tone of voice, or minor complaints rather than long-term hatred or deep rage.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Distinguish peevish from angry
'Peevish' suggests minor, petty irritation—like a tired toddler or fussy tourist—whereas 'furious' or 'angry' implies intense emotion.
Gold Rule
Reserve peevish for petty annoyances
Describe mood, tone, or complaints as peevish when the annoyance stems from minor frustrations rather than serious conflict.
Word Origin
Originating in Late Middle English as 'pevish', meaning foolish, caprious, or stubborn, likely from an imitative root associated with whining or making complaining sounds.
Usage Notes
Use 'peevish' when someone is mildly annoyed and complaining about petty inconveniences. It implies childish or fussy dissatisfaction rather than serious anger.