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peevish

Constantly complaining, especially in a childish way due to insignificant matters; fretful, whiny.

ˈpiːvɪʃCurrent151 viewsLast reviewed Jun 29, 2026+ Add a definition
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#1·Apr 27, 2026

Constantly complaining, especially in a childish way due to insignificant matters; fretful, whiny.

Due to the long wait, there were several peevish patients in the doctor’s waiting room.
Origin: The is derived from Late , peuysche, pevish, pevysh; further etymology , possibly from one of the following: * From an unattested word, from , the of pervertō, from per- + vertō (ultimately from ). However, the Oxford English Dictionary says this derivation “presents some formal difficulties”. * From + . *Expaive is an unattested variant of , (referring to the behaviour of stray animals; modern ), from , from ex- + pavidus (from paveō (ultimately from ) + -idus). The is derived from the adjective. Origin information sourced from Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0).
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#2·Apr 27, 2026

Quick to become bad-tempered or cross, especially due to insignificant matters; irritable, pettish, petulant.

I would rather figure things out on my own than ask that peevish librarian for help.
Heard in the wild
  • “He's shaping up to be as peevish and thin-skinned as Corbyn was. Leaders are scrutinised, and those who have made up professional experience for personal gain should be called out on it.”

    — Bluesky· May 2026
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#3·Apr 27, 2026

(Canada, Northern England, figurative) Of weather: blustery, windy; also, of wind: cold and strong; bitter, sharp.

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