Definition

The quality of being easily annoyed or angry, often in a nagging or complaining way.

Example

Her shrewishness made it difficult for her friends to enjoy their time together.

Conversation

I noticed that her shrewishness really comes out when she's stressed.

Yeah, it can be tough to deal with her when she's like that.

I wonder if there's a way to help her manage that shrewishness.

Maybe we could suggest some relaxation techniques to her.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Shrewishness is formed from "shrew" (from Old English *screawa*, meaning a woman of ill temper or a scolding person) and "-ish" (meaning having the quality of) and "-ness" (meaning the state or condition of). The word describes the state of being like a shrew, characterized by ill temper or nagging behavior.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'shrew' as someone who is ill-tempered, and remember that 'shrewishness' refers to the quality of being like that — having a nagging or scolding nature.

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