Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈæŋɡri/

Definitions

• Feeling or showing strong displeasure or hostility; enraged or furious.
• Characterized by intense emotion resulting from being upset, irritated, or provoked.
• Indicating a state of displeasure, often triggered by a perceived wrong or injustice.

Usage Examples

• "She was angry when she found out about the mistake."
• "His angry words only made the situation worse."
• "The angry crowd protested outside the government building."

Etymology

The word "angry" comes from the Middle English word "angri," which is derived from the Old Norse word "angr" (meaning grief or sorrow). The word underwent shifts in meaning over time and came to be associated with violent emotion in response to frustration or injustice.

Synonyms

• Furious
• Enraged
• Mad
• Irritated
• Indignant
• Wrathful
• Annoyed

Antonyms

• Calm
• Peaceful
• Serene
• Content
• Happy
• Relaxed

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In certain dialects of English, particularly in the American South, the word may be pronounced with a softer "a," as /ˈæŋɡri/ or /ˈæŋɡɪ/.
• In rapid speech, speakers may truncate the ending slightly, pronouncing it as /ˈæŋɡrɪ/.

Historical Usage

The word "angry" has been in use since the 14th century, derived from the Middle English "angri." It was initially used to describe a state of emotional disturbance or distress. By the 16th century, the meaning broadened to encompass hostility or rage. Throughout the centuries, the word has been associated with intense emotional responses, but it has evolved to reflect a variety of contexts from minor irritation to extreme fury.

Cultural Nuances

In many Western cultures, being angry is often seen as a negative emotion to be avoided or controlled, particularly in formal or professional settings. However, in cultures with a higher tolerance for emotional expression, such as Mediterranean or Latin American cultures, anger may be seen as a legitimate form of emotional expression, especially in the context of injustice or mistreatment. The acceptability of showing anger varies significantly based on social norms and individual temperaments.

More Information

Anger is a natural emotional response to perceived wrongdoings or frustration. However, chronic anger or unresolved anger issues can lead to detrimental effects on both physical and mental health. Psychologists often advise individuals to find healthy outlets for their anger, such as exercise, creative expression, or meditation. Managing anger effectively involves recognizing the triggers, expressing it appropriately, and finding constructive solutions to underlying problems. Healthy anger management can help improve relationships, reduce stress, and foster personal growth.