Peevish

Peevish describes a person or mood that is easily irritated or annoyed, often displaying childish sulkiness or bad temper. It implies a tendency to complain, grumble, and express displeasure over minor inconveniences or perceived slights. A peevish individual is typically quick to take offense and exhibits a short fuse, making them unpleasant to interact with. The underlying causes of peevishness can range from fatigue and hunger to more deep-seated emotional issues like insecurity or frustration. This word captures the quality of being readily displeased or fretful, creating an atmosphere of negativity and discontent. It suggests a lack of patience and a propensity to make things difficult for oneself and others. The resulting behaviour is often marked by a lack of reason and is seen as unwarranted and annoying.

Peevish meaning with examples

• The toddler, tired after a long day, became peevish, throwing his toys and refusing to eat dinner. His parents, understanding the underlying fatigue, tried to soothe him, but his grumbling and petulant behavior persisted until bedtime. The experience demonstrated how quickly stress and exhaustion can turn a child's demeanor sour, emphasizing the impact of external factors on a child's nature.
• After waiting for hours in the crowded airport, the passengers grew increasingly peevish, directing their frustrations at the airline staff. Minor delays triggered loud complaints and hostile stares as the travelers vented their displeasure. The situation quickly deteriorated as the delay persisted, highlighting how external frustrations can quickly cause people to lose their composure and become irritable.
• The old man was known for his peevish nature. He would snap at anyone who disturbed him, making visitors feel uncomfortable in his home. Even minor changes to his routine, like a delayed delivery or a noisy neighbor, would set him off on a rant. His constant complaints isolated him from many people and he frequently spoke about his grievances.
• During the negotiations, the union representative became peevish when the company refused to budge on certain key issues. He slammed his papers on the table and began to question the company's motives with loud and abrasive remarks. His actions and the overall situation demonstrated the high stakes and tensions that were very prevalent throughout the negotiations and meetings.
• The normally cheerful actress became peevish on set due to the incessant delays and criticisms of the director. She snapped at her colleagues, and her performance suffered as she lost her focus. Her peevish attitude affected the entire atmosphere, disrupting filming schedules, highlighting how difficult working conditions or the constant demands and pressures can significantly impact an individual's behavior.