testiness
UK: ˈtesti.nəs | US: ˈtesti.nəs
n. irritability; a tendency to be easily annoyed or impatient
The word "testiness" derives from the Middle English "testif," meaning headstrong or irritable, which itself likely comes from the Old French "testu" (stubborn, from "teste," meaning head). The suffix "-ness" (from Old English "-nes") transforms the adjective "testy" into a noun denoting the state of being irritable. The progression reflects a shift from physical stubbornness ("headstrong") to emotional irritability.
His testiness was evident when he snapped at the waiter for a minor delay.
Lack of sleep often leads to increased testiness in otherwise calm people.
She apologized for her testiness, blaming it on stress.
The manager’s testiness made the team hesitant to ask questions.
A warm cup of tea helped soothe his morning testiness.