grumpy
UK: ˈɡrʌmpi | US: ˈɡrʌmpi
adj. easily annoyed or irritable; bad-tempered
The word "grumpy" emerged in the early 18th century, derived from the obsolete noun "grump," meaning a fit of ill temper. The suffix "-y" was added to form an adjective, a common pattern in English (e.g., "sleepy," "happy"). The root "grump" likely imitates the sound of grumbling or complaining, reflecting the word's expressive, almost onomatopoeic quality. Over time, "grumpy" has retained its vivid association with irritability, often used to describe someone temporarily in a sour mood.
The old man was grumpy when the children played near his garden.
She’s always grumpy before her morning coffee.
Don’t be so grumpy—it’s just a minor delay.
His grumpy demeanor scared away the new interns.
Even on sunny days, the cat remained inexplicably grumpy.