fretful

[ fret-fuhl ]

adjective

1. disposed or quick to fret; irritable or peevish.

   Synonyms: testy, impatient, querulous, petulant

fretful

/ ˈfrɛtfʊl /

adjective

1. peevish, irritable, or upset

Derived Forms

• ˈfretfully, adverb
• ˈfretfulness, noun

Other Words From

• fretful·ly adverb
• fretful·ness noun
• un·fretful adjective
• un·fretful·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of fretful¹

First recorded in 1585–95; fret ¹ + -ful

Example Sentences

The opening track, “Gemini,” is a vivid but fretful tale of modern malaise and a doppelgänger who gives Heynderickx refreshing perspective.

From New York Times

Hoover and his aides became progressively more fretful about the settlement at Anacostia Flats, especially when its organizers began to talk about making it permanent.

From Los Angeles Times

Kounalakis would very much like to be California’s next governor, and her fretful appearance in the 30-second spot is very much a part of her strategy to make that happen in November 2026.

From Los Angeles Times

Although the series treats Blauner as a fretful schlemiel in early episodes — almost the moment we meet him, we hear about his hemorrhoids — he’s allowed to be a man of action later on.

From Los Angeles Times

Communication failures ensue, as do the progressively more fretful faces and soundtrack music.

From New York Times