crabby

word

Definition

Describes someone who is easily annoyed or often in a bad mood. Usually refers to a person who is irritable and not very friendly at the moment.

Usage & Nuances

Informal and mildly negative; often used for temporary moods ('a crabby baby'), not for deep personality flaws. Common with children or adults in a bad mood. Similar to 'grumpy', but 'crabby' suggests irritability and being quick to snap.

Example Sentences

My little brother is crabby when he is hungry.

basic

She felt crabby after a long day at work.

basic

The crabby old man yelled at the kids.

basic

Don’t talk to me before coffee—I’m so crabby in the morning.

natural

Why are you so crabby today? Did something happen?

natural

He gets crabby when he doesn’t get enough sleep.

natural