fractious
UK: ˈfræk.ʃəs | US: ˈfræk.ʃəs
adj. easily irritated or unruly; prone to causing trouble
adj. (of a group) difficult to control due to disagreement or discontent
fractious = fract<break> + ious<adjective suffix>
- fract (from Latin fractus, past participle of frangere "to break") → Implies disruption or fragmentation.
- ious (adjective-forming suffix, from Latin -iosus) → Denotes a quality or tendency.
Etymology Origin:
The word fractious emerged in the early 18th century, derived from fraction (a fragment or dissenting group) + -ious. It originally described groups prone to "breaking" unity (e.g., rebellious factions). Over time, it generalized to describe any irritable or unruly behavior, metaphorically extending the idea of "breaking" harmony.
The fractious toddler refused to nap, throwing toys across the room.
The committee grew fractious as members argued over budget cuts.
Managing a fractious team requires patience and clear communication.
Her fractious mood made the meeting unbearable.
The political debate turned fractious, with insults hurled from both sides.