Definition

More easily annoyed or irritable than usual.

Example

After a long day at work, she felt tetchier than normal and snapped at her friends.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Have you noticed that he's been a bit tetchier lately?

Yeah, I thought it was just me!

I wonder if something is bothering him more than usual.

Maybe we should ask him if he wants to talk about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tetchier → It originates from the dialectal English word 'tetchy', which is derived from 'touchy' (meaning sensitive or easily offended). The suffix '-er' indicates a comparative form. Therefore, 'tetchier' means more sensitive or easily offended than something else.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'touchy' and easily upset — adding '-er' means they are even more so. This helps you remember that 'tetchier' describes someone who is more sensitive.

Visually Confused Words