Crabby

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈkræbi/

Definitions

• 1. Easily annoyed, irritable, or bad-tempered.
• 2. Resembling or related to a crab in some way.

Usage Examples

• "She gets crabby when she doesn’t have her morning coffee."
• "The old man was known for his crabby disposition."

Etymology

Derived from "crab" (Old English: "crabba"), metaphorically referring to the crab’s perceived ill-tempered and sideways-moving nature. The word "crabby" has been in use since at least the 18th century.

Synonyms

• Grumpy
• Irritable
• Cranky
• Grouchy
• Surly

Antonyms

• Cheerful
• Good-natured
• Easygoing
• Friendly

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, "crabby" is pronounced /ˈkræbi/ with a strong "a" sound.
• In British English, the pronunciation remains similar but can sometimes sound softer.

Historical Usage

First recorded in the 18th century, "crabby" gained popularity as a colloquial term in English-speaking regions to describe someone with a cranky or irritable temperament. Its association with the crab, an animal often perceived as aggressive or defensive, contributed to its widespread adoption.

Cultural Nuances

In some cultures, being "crabby" is associated with a humorous or endearing trait, particularly among the elderly. In literature and media, crabby characters are often portrayed as grumpy but lovable individuals. The term is frequently used in informal conversations to describe temporary irritability.

More Information

The term "crabby" is commonly used in everyday English, particularly in North America. It is often applied to individuals who are momentarily upset rather than having a perpetually bad attitude. The word also has extended metaphorical uses, such as describing weather ("crabby skies") or situations that seem unpleasant.