Fractiously

In a manner characterized by irritability, impatience, or petulance. It describes behavior that is easily upset, causing annoyance or conflict, and often involves complaining or complaining, especially when minor issues are involved. It suggests a quick temper and a tendency to become annoyed at small provocations. The term captures a state of emotional unrest where a person expresses discontent or negativity through their actions or words. The behavior may display a sense of frustration or discontent that is readily apparent. It often describes children and pets, although adults can exhibit the behavior as well.

Fractiously meaning with examples

• The child, overtired from the long car ride, began to cry fractiously, pulling at her mother's arm and demanding a snack. She was easily agitated and difficult to console. The other passengers grew increasingly annoyed at her fractious outbursts. Everyone hoped the journey would end soon. The child's impatience seemed to fill the air.
• The team members, already stressed by the looming deadline, reacted fractiously to the new instructions, muttering criticisms and making sarcastic remarks. They squabbled and bickered as they were given more instructions, and there were more issues at hand. The atmosphere in the room became tense with their fractious behavior, as their negativity spread amongst each other.
• The dog, separated from his owner at the boarding facility, whined and barked fractiously, pacing his cage and refusing to eat. His anxiety was clear. The noise of the other dogs seemed to agitate him more. He appeared restless and unhappy, which was upsetting to other people too. The situation showed the pet's fractious behavior.
• After losing the game, the coach spoke to the media fractiously, snapping at questions and offering short, defensive answers. He was displaying obvious irritation and was unable to mask his anger. His remarks were more combative than usual. His tense mood made him look like he was ready to erupt. His reaction suggested an inability to accept his defeat.
• The customers, facing long lines and slow service at the airport, began to complain fractiously, exchanging sharp words and demanding to speak to a manager. The frustration they felt was easily palpable. Their impatient attitude made the situation worse for other travelers. The scene was chaotic and unpleasant, revealing their discontent.