irascible
What does "irascible" mean?
The word "irascible" describes someone who has a quick temper and is easily provoked to anger. Imagine a person who is like a dry bundle of kindling—a single spark of frustration or a slight inconvenience is enough to set their mood ablaze instantly. It is a formal, descriptive term often used in literature or journalism to characterize someone’s personality as habitually crabby or explosive. While you might call a friend "short-tempered" in casual conversation, "irascible" suggests a more ingrained, almost permanent state of irritability.
"irascible" in conversation
Discussing a strict professor
Is Professor Miller always this grumpy during office hours?
Is Professor Miller always this grumpy during office hours?
Yes, he’s notoriously irascible. Don't ask him about your grade unless you're prepared for a lecture.
Yes, he’s notoriously irascible. Don't ask him about your grade unless you're prepared for a lecture.
Used here to warn someone about a recurring personality trait.
Watching a period drama
Why is the patriarch so irascible in this scene?
Why is the patriarch so irascible in this scene?
He’s stressed about the estate, and he has zero patience for his children today.
He’s stressed about the estate, and he has zero patience for his children today.
Highlights how the word is frequently used to describe characters in narratives.
"irascible" in a sentence
The irascible old man shouted at the children to get off his lawn.
The irascible old man shouted at the children to get off his lawn.
Her irascible nature made it difficult for her to maintain long-term friendships.
Her irascible nature made it difficult for her to maintain long-term friendships.
Despite his irascible temperament, he was a brilliant scientist who demanded perfection from his assistants.
Despite his irascible temperament, he was a brilliant scientist who demanded perfection from his assistants.
