huffish
UK: ˈhʌfɪʃ | US: ˈhʌfɪʃ
adj. irritable or sulky; easily offended
adj. showing petulant annoyance
The word "huffish" combines "huff," an early 16th-century term imitative of blowing air (suggesting anger or puffing up in irritation), with the suffix "-ish," which conveys a quality or tendency. "Huff" itself likely originated as an onomatopoeic expression of abrupt exhalation, later metaphorically extended to describe a fit of temper. The "-ish" suffix softens the intensity, implying a habitual or somewhat petty irritability rather than outright rage.
She gave a huffish reply when asked to help with the chores.
His huffish demeanor made the meeting tense.
The child grew huffish after being denied a second dessert.
Ignoring her huffish sighs, he continued working.
A huffish attitude won’t solve the problem.