Definition

The quality of being easily annoyed or irritable.

Example

His testiness was evident when he snapped at his friends over a small mistake.

Conversation

I noticed you've been a bit on edge lately.

Yeah, I've been feeling some testiness at work.

Is everything okay with your project?

It's just stressful, but I hope it gets better soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Testiness → It is formed from "testy" (from Middle English *testy*, meaning irritable or easily annoyed) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "testiness" refers to the state of being irritable or easily annoyed.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'irritable' ('testy') and how that describes their 'state' ('-ness') of being easily annoyed.

Visually Confused Words