Definition

More difficult to deal with or more stubborn than usual.

Example

My dog has been ornerier than usual lately, refusing to listen to commands.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I think my cat is getting ornerier every day.

Really? I thought he was already pretty stubborn.

Yeah, he won't even let me pet him without hissing now.

Sounds like he's claiming his territory more than ever!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'ornerier' is derived from 'ornery' (from American English, possibly influenced by the dialectal 'ornery' meaning irritable or cantankerous). The suffix '-ier' is a comparative suffix used to indicate a higher degree of the quality described. Therefore, 'ornerier' means more irritable or more cantankerous than something else.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ornery' as describing someone who is irritable, and the '-ier' means more. So, when you hear 'ornerier', imagine someone who is even more difficult to deal with than usual.

Visually Confused Words