crotchety

[ kroch-i-tee ]

adjective

1. given to odd notions, whims, grouchiness, etc.

   Synonyms: grouchy, eccentric, fussy

2. of the nature of a crotchet.

crotchety

/ ˈkrɒtʃɪtɪ /

adjective

1. informal.
   cross; irritable; contrary
2. full of crotchets

Derived Forms

• ˈcrotchetiness, noun

Other Words From

• crotchet·i·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of crotchety¹

First recorded in 1815–25; crotchet + -y ¹

Example Sentences

She excelled on stage and screen in Alan Bennett’s “The Lady in the Van,” playing a crotchety squatter with an imperious sense of entitlement.

From Los Angeles Times

Otis Drexell, crotchety fifth-grade teacher and scam artist, has only two classroom rules: “Never shout when the teacher has a hangover,” and “All loose change belongs to the teacher.”

From Los Angeles Times

We of the more crotchety generations, however, suffered through the plaything’s shrill, maniacal giggles for a sustained period – months, years maybe.

From Salon

The Grumpy Café may not sound like the friendliest place to grab a coffee but inside the large, warm meeting place in the centre of Hastings, the atmosphere is anything but crotchety.

From BBC

Flora grows more forlorn with her husband’s every crotchety reply.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• cantankerous
• crusty
• grouchy
• grumpy
• ornery