Petulance

Petulance is a noun that refers to the state of being childishly sulky or bad-tempered. It often manifests as a knee-jerk reaction to minor annoyances or frustrations, typically characterized by an ill-tempered attitude and displays of impatience. The term highlights a lack of emotional maturity, gravitating towards instances where individuals react negatively or rudely despite trivial provocations.

Petulance meaning with examples

• During the meeting, her Petulance became apparent when she dismissed feedback too quickly, crossing her arms and pouting like a child. Rather than engaging in constructive dialogue, she sulked, causing tension in the room. Such behavior undermines a collaborative atmosphere and alienates colleagues who wish to communicate openly and constructively. It’s crucial for professionals to manage emotions for effective teamwork.
• His Petulance was particularly evident when the waiter took too long to serve his meal. He couldn’t help but roll his eyes and snap at the staff, causing a scene that drew the attention of other diners. Instead of waiting patiently as everyone else did, his impatience shone through, demonstrating how minor delays can trigger disproportionate reactions when one is in a bad mood.
• The child’s Petulance was on full display at the playground, where a simple disagreement over a swing led to tears and an exaggerated display of anger. Instead of negotiating turn-taking smoothly, he threw down his toy and shouted angrily, causing a ripple of frustration among his friends. This was a clear reminder of the struggles children face in managing their feelings in social situations.
• As the project deadline approached, her Petulance turned into a point of contention among the team. She frequently voiced her irritation over the slow pace of progress, reacting sharply to any suggestions for improvement. This negative energy dampened morale and stifled collaboration, highlighting how detrimental a petulant attitude can be in high-pressure environments, where support and patience are essential.