cantankerous
UK: kænˈtæŋkərəs | US: kænˈtæŋkərəs
adj. bad-tempered, argumentative, and uncooperative
The word "cantankerous" emerged in the 18th century, blending the obsolete term "cant" (meaning hypocritical or whining speech) with the now-archaic "ankerous" (ill-natured). Its exact origins are unclear, but it may have been influenced by the Irish word "caint" (talk) or Latin "cancer" (crab, symbolizing irritability). The fusion reflects a vivid portrayal of someone prone to grumbling and quarrelsomeness.
The cantankerous old man yelled at the children for stepping on his lawn.
Her cantankerous mood made the meeting unbearable.
Despite his cantankerous demeanor, he had a soft spot for animals.
The debate turned heated due to the cantankerous remarks from both sides.
Living with a cantankerous roommate requires endless patience.