peevish - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
peevish Word Meanings
- easily irritated or annoyed
- in a bad mood
- testy or cranky
peevish Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
peevish Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpiː.vɪʃ/
US
/ˈpiː.vɪʃ/
peevish Word Etymology
peeve (to annoy) + -ish (characteristic of); from Old English 'peofan' (to vex). Visualize a small creature constantly nagging your ear until you become irritable.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Peevish describes a person who becomes easily irritated or annoyed, often over small inconveniences. It suggests a tendency toward a briefly grouchy mood rather than deep anger, and it is usually about temperament rather than a single incident. You might feel peevish after a sleepless night, during a stressful deadline, or when plans change unexpectedly. The tone of peevish is light and somewhat humorous, not harsh or hostile. In usage, it is milder than irritable or cranky, and it is appropriate for describing a mood or reaction that lasts a short while. Use with be, feel, seem, or become.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: peevish is mood, not motive; use with be/feel/seem; not for long, heavy anger; often self-deprecating; milder than irritable; good with small, everyday annoyances.
Common Misconceptions
- It means you are angry all the time.
- It implies a strong, lasting temperament.
- Peevish and peeved are the same.
- It is only used for adults.
- It describes someone who never gets irritated.
Thinking Differences
Peevish is a mild mood descriptor in English, signaling a temporary irritability rather than a harsh burst of anger; learners tend to mistake it for stronger emotions like anger or to overgeneralize it to long-lasting temperaments.
Learning Tips
- Compare with irritability and crankiness to sense the nuance.
- Practice be/feel/seem with peevish to describe moods.
- Use in informal contexts to convey humor or self-deprecation.
- Pair with small inconveniences to show intensity.
- Avoid describing people who are chronically angry as peevish.
- Listen for tone; peevish often sounds playful, not hostile.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'peevish'?
A.Happy
B.Excited
C.Grumpy
D.Confused
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'peevish' correctly?
A.They celebrated the peevish occasion with joy.
B.He chuckled at the peevish puppy chasing its tail.
C.She was very patient and kind when dealing with the peevish customer.
D.The peevish teacher praised the student's hard work.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'peevish'?
A.Cheerful
B.Eager
C.Irritable
D.Complacent
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'peevish'?
A.Content
B.Angry
C.Bitter
D.Hostile
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation might someone be described as 'peevish'?
A.Dealing with a long line at the DMV
B.Enjoying a relaxing vacation
C.Winning a competition
D.Celebrating a surprise party
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