Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

cantankerous

Adjective
/kanˈtaŋk(ə)rəs/
Definition
Bad-tempered, argumentative, and uncooperative.
Examples
  • The cantankerous old man yelled at the neighborhood kids for playing too loudly.
  • Despite her cantankerous nature, her friends loved her for her honesty.
  • Working with a cantankerous colleague can make team projects quite difficult.
Meaning
Someone who is cantankerous is often irritable and difficult to deal with. They may frequently complain or argue, making interactions challenging.
Synonyms
  • grumpy
  • irritable
  • cranky
  • testy
  • curmudgeonly