Definition

This word describes someone who is very difficult to deal with, often stubborn or irritable.

Example

My dog can be the orneriest when he doesn't get his way.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I think my cat is the orneriest creature I've ever met.

Really? What has he done this time?

He knocked over my drink just to get my attention.

Sounds like he's got quite the personality!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Orneriest → The word 'orneriest' is derived from 'ornery' (from American English, possibly influenced by the dialectal 'ornery' meaning irritable or difficult), which itself may trace back to 'ordinary' (from Latin 'ordinarius', meaning regular or customary) with a negative connotation. The suffix '-est' indicates the superlative form. Thus, 'orneriest' means the most irritable or difficult.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is the 'most difficult' or 'most irritable' — 'ornery' suggests a negative quality, and the '-est' shows that it is the highest degree of that quality.

Visually Confused Words