splenetic
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈsplɛnɪtɪk/
KK: /spləˈnɛtɪk/
adjective
Definition
Having a bad temper or being irritable; often feeling angry or gloomy.
Example
His splenetic remarks made the meeting uncomfortable for everyone.
Conversation
Why has Jake been so splenetic lately?
I think he's just stressed out with work and everything.
That makes sense, but his attitude is really hard to deal with.
I know, right? Hopefully, he can find a way to lighten up soon.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
irritable
testy
sullen
Antonyms
cheerful
pleasant
happy
noun
Definition
A person who is easily annoyed or angry, often showing a bad temper.
Example
He was known to be a splenetic individual, quick to lose his temper over small issues.
Conversation
Have you noticed how splenetic Mark has been lately?
Yeah, it's like he's always in a bad mood.
I wonder what's bothering him; he used to be so cheerful.
Root Explanation
**Splenetic** → It is derived from "splen" (from Latin *splen*, meaning spleen) and the suffix "-etic" (meaning pertaining to). The word "splenetic" refers to a temperament or mood that is associated with the spleen, historically thought to be linked to melancholy or irritability.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'spleen' which relates to a mood or temperament — 'splenetic' describes someone who is irritable or melancholic, as if their mood is tied to the spleen.
Visually Confused Words
pleonectic
perisplenetic
antisplenetic
polygenetic