snappish
UK: ˈsnæpɪʃ | US: ˈsnæpɪʃ
adj. irritable or quick to anger; inclined to snap at others
adj. (of speech or tone) sharp or curt
The word "snappish" combines "snap," derived from Middle Dutch or Low German "snappen" (meaning to seize or bite suddenly), with the suffix "-ish," which conveys a characteristic or tendency. Originally used to describe animals (e.g., dogs) prone to biting, it later extended to describe irritable human behavior or sharp speech. The progression reflects the metaphorical link between physical snapping and verbal sharpness.
The tired customer grew snappish with the slow service.
Her snappish reply made it clear she was in no mood to talk.
The dog became snappish when strangers approached its food.
Avoid a snappish tone in professional emails.
His snappish demeanor softened after a good night’s sleep.