Vocabulary word Peevish - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

Complaint and Discontent

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Disenchantment and Discontent

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GRE 10 (Graduate Record Examination)

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Suffix -ish

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Vexation and Aggravation

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Dictionary Definition of peevish

Easily irritated or annoyed by minor things, and tending to complain or express dissatisfaction frequently.
"She was in a peevish mood all morning, snapping at everyone around her."

Detailed Meaning of Peevish

A peevish person is often in a bad mood, and can be difficult to deal with because of their tendency to be grumpy, irritable, or sulky. They may be described as moody or short-tempered, and may react in an overly sensitive or defensive manner to criticism or feedback. In general, a peevish person is not easy to please, and may find fault with even the most well-intentioned actions or gestures.

Example Sentences for Peevish

1. His peevish attitude made it hard to work with him on the project.
2. She grew peevish when her coffee order was slightly wrong.
3. The peevish customer demanded to speak to the manager.
4. Avoiding eye contact, he remained peevish throughout the meeting.
5. A peevish coworker can create a tense atmosphere in the office.
6. Her peevish complaints about the weather became tiresome.

Origin and Etymology of Peevish

The adjective 'peevish' has its roots in the Middle English word 'pevisch,' which means 'perverse' or 'petulant.' It can be traced back further to the Old English word 'pēof,' meaning 'thief' or 'rogue.' Over time, 'peevish' evolved to describe someone who is easily irritated or annoyed by minor things and tends to complain or express dissatisfaction frequently. The connection to the notion of a 'rogue' or 'perverse' individual likely reflects the difficult or contrary behavior associated with a peevish disposition. The etymology of 'peevish' underscores the idea of being vexed or irritated by trifles, often accompanied by a propensity for peevish individuals to express their grievances or displeasure readily.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective peevish:

cheerful

irritable

happy

content

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Peevish

1. The toddler's peevish behavior stemmed from lack of sleep.
2. The peevish neighbor often found fault with everyone around him.
3. Despite the peevish remarks, they kept their patience.
4. The peevish old man yelled at kids playing near his yard.
5. His peevish disposition made it challenging to keep the peace.
6. His peevish complaints about the weather grated on everyone's nerves.
7. The peevish customer demanded to speak to the manager.
8. Despite her peevish demeanor, he tried to cheer her up with a joke.
9. The long wait in the queue made some people quite peevish.
10. He became peevish when his plans were repeatedly disrupted.
11. The peevish child refused to eat her vegetables.
12. Her peevish attitude was a sign of her exhaustion and frustration.
13. The peevish tone of his emails made it difficult to communicate effectively.
14. After a night of little sleep, she woke up feeling particularly peevish.
15. His peevish behavior was a result of stress at work.
16. The peevish cat hissed at anyone who tried to pet it.
17. The peevish patient made it challenging for the nurses to care for him.
18. Despite her peevishness, she appreciated the effort to help her.
19. The peevish remarks in the meeting hindered productive discussions.
20. His peevishness was a clear indicator of his displeasure with the situation.
21. The teacher handled the peevish student with patience and understanding.
22. The peevish complaints of the commuters filled the crowded subway car.
23. After a good night's rest, her peevishness disappeared.
24. The peevishness of the crowd at the delayed concert was palpable.