Cantankerous

Pronunciation: /kænˈtæŋkərəs/

Definitions of cantankerous

adjective Cantankerous is used to describe someone who is bad-tempered, argumentative, and uncooperative.

Example Sentences

A1 My cantankerous cat always hisses at strangers.

A2 The cantankerous old man grumbled about the weather all day.

B1 The cantankerous customer complained about every little detail of the meal.

B2 Despite his cantankerous demeanor, he was actually quite generous with his friends.

C1 The cantankerous professor was known for his sharp wit and intimidating presence in the classroom.

C2 Her cantankerous attitude often alienated those around her, but she didn't seem to care.

Examples of cantankerous in a Sentence

formal The cantankerous old man refused to speak to anyone at the family gathering.

informal My cantankerous neighbor always yells at kids who play near his yard.

slang I try to avoid that cantankerous customer at work, he's always so grumpy.

figurative The storm clouds gathered overhead, looking as cantankerous as a group of angry gods.

Grammatical Forms of cantankerous

• past tense: was cantankerous
• plural: cantankerous people
• comparative: more cantankerous
• superlative: most cantankerous
• present tense: is cantankerous
• future tense: will be cantankerous
• perfect tense: has been cantankerous
• continuous tense: is being cantankerous
• singular: a cantankerous person
• positive degree: cantankerous
• infinitive: to be cantankerous
• gerund: being cantankerous
• participle: cantankerous behavior

Origin and Evolution of cantankerous

First Known Use: 1772 year

Language of Origin: Middle English

Story behind the word: The word 'cantankerous' is believed to have originated from the Middle English word 'contacke' which means quarrel or dispute.

Evolution of the word: Originally used to describe someone who is difficult, argumentative, and ill-tempered, the word 'cantankerous' has retained its negative connotation over time. However, it is now also used in a more lighthearted or humorous manner to describe someone who is stubborn or irritable.