Definition

The quality of being easily annoyed or irritable.

Example

His crotchetiness made it difficult for others to work with him.

Conversation

Have you noticed how much crotchetiness there is around lately?

Yeah, it seems like everyone is a bit on edge these days.

I wonder if it's just the weather making people grumpy.

Could be! A little sunshine would definitely help lift the crotchetiness.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Crotchetiness → The word is derived from "crotchet" (from Middle English *crotchet*, meaning a small hook or a whimsical notion) and the suffix "-iness" (meaning the quality of). Thus, "crotchetiness" refers to the quality of being whimsical or capricious, often in a way that is irritable or contrary.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'crotchet' as a whimsical notion or idea, and when you add '-iness', it describes the quality of being whimsical or irritable. This helps you remember that 'crotchetiness' is about having a whimsical or contrary nature.

Visually Confused Words