Definition

A person who is often in a bad mood and is difficult to please, usually an older man.

Example

My neighbor is such a curmudgeon; he complains about everything.

Conversation

Did you hear about Mr. Thompson?

Yeah, he’s such a curmudgeon these days!

I know, right? He used to be so friendly.

I guess old age can make people a bit grumpy.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Curmudgeon originates from the 17th-century English dialect, possibly derived from the Old French word *cormorche*, meaning a miser or a greedy person. The exact etymology is uncertain, but it generally refers to a bad-tempered or surly individual.

Memory Tip

Think of a person who is 'miserly' or 'greedy' — that's what a curmudgeon is, someone who is often grumpy and unwilling to share.

Visually Confused Words