Definition

Very irritable or easily annoyed; the most irritable or easily annoyed.

Example

She was in a tetchiest mood after a long day at work.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I think today is one of the tetchiest days I've had in a while.

Really? What happened to make you feel that way?

I just feel like everything is getting on my nerves.

I get that; some days are just like that, aren't they?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tetchiest → It is formed from "tetchy" (from the dialectal form of "touchy", meaning easily irritated) and the suffix "-est" (indicating the superlative degree). The word "tetchiest" means the most easily irritated or sensitive.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is the 'most easily irritated' — 'tetchy' means touchy or sensitive, and '-est' shows that it's the highest degree.

Visually Confused Words