querulous
UK: /ˈkwɛrʊləs/ | US: /ˈkwɛrələs/
adj. habitually complaining or whining
adj. expressing discontent in a petulant manner
The word "querulous" originates from the Latin querulus, meaning "complaining," derived from queri ("to complain"). The root quer- reflects the act of lamentation or protest, while the suffix -ous (from Latin -osus) turns it into an adjective describing a tendency. Over time, the word evolved in English to describe someone who is persistently fretful or peevish, retaining its core association with vocal discontent.
The querulous child demanded attention with constant whining.
His querulous tone made the meeting unbearable.
She grew querulous after hours of waiting in line.
The manager ignored the querulous complaints of the dissatisfied customer.
Aging had made him more querulous and resistant to change.