Choleric

Choleric describes someone easily angered; bad-tempered or irritable. The term originates from the ancient Greek theory of humors, where 'choleric' indicated an excess of yellow bile, believed to cause anger. This disposition often manifests as quick outbursts of temper, impatience, and a tendency to be easily provoked. A choleric person might react with aggression, resentment, or frustration in response to minor inconveniences or disagreements. The intensity of the anger can vary, but the core characteristic is a heightened susceptibility to becoming irate.

Choleric meaning with examples

• The manager was notoriously choleric, erupting in fits of rage at the slightest delay or mistake from his employees. His volatile temper created a stressful work environment, with many staff members constantly walking on eggshells to avoid his wrath. The slightest error was met with a furious rebuke, causing anxieties about their performance and job security.
• During the heated debate, the politician's choleric responses revealed a vulnerability to criticism. His aggressive retorts and dismissive attitude towards opposing viewpoints were evident to all. He became visibly agitated at unfavorable questions. His display of fury damaged his reputation and weakened his defense during later cross-examination.
• The old, grumpy fisherman was choleric. He yelled at anyone who got too close to his fishing spot. He was extremely intolerant of what he saw as disruptive behaviours. His mood always seemed sour, reflecting the disappointment of the day's catch. The other townsfolk had learned to avoid provoking his temper.
• Her generally mild demeanor hid a surprisingly choleric side that surfaced when her children misbehaved. It was as if their antics triggered a hidden switch, and in these moments, the previously composed woman would become fiercely protective, demanding immediate obedience. The sudden shift was jarring.