peckish

[ pek-ish ]

adjective

, Chiefly British Informal.

1. somewhat hungry:

   By noon we were feeling a bit peckish.

2. rather irritable:

   He's always a bit peckish after his nap.

peckish

/ ˈpɛkɪʃ /

adjective

1. informal.
   feeling slightly hungry; having an appetite

Word History and Origins

Origin of peckish¹

First recorded in 1775–85; peck ¹ + -ish ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of peckish¹

C18: from peck ²

Example Sentences

And that in whatever jazzy afterlife exists for wayward novelists, they’re up there ashing carelessly into their martinis, and letting ids and peckish wildcats run free.

From New York Times

After a peckish day of few feeds — because mum had been busy putting opponents through the wringer — 10-month-old Athéna made amends that night.

From Seattle Times

Rescuers then realised that along with climbing equipment, Wotsits were needed - the lunchbox staple to which the peckish parrot was partial.

From BBC

Still, the book’s vibe makes it pleasant company for an afternoon in the park with a snack, though it will still leave you feeling peckish.

From Los Angeles Times

Using infrared sensors, the team watched which landing platforms the peckish mosquitoes chose.

From Science Magazine

Related Words

• dehydrated
• dying
• emaciated
• hungry
• malnourished
• undernourished