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Showing results for short-tempered. Search instead for shorttempered.
Synonyms

short-tempered

American  
[shawrt-tem-perd] / ˈʃɔrtˈtɛm pərd /

adjective

  1. having a quick, hasty temper; irascible.

    Synonyms:
    waspish, choleric, testy, irritable

short-tempered British  

adjective

  1. easily moved to anger; irascible

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of short-tempered

First recorded in 1885–90


Vocabulary lists containing short-tempered

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Former Rep. Katie Porter’s gubernatorial prospects are uncertain in the aftermath of the emergence of two videos that underscore long-swirling rumors that the Irvine Democrat is thin-skinned and a short-tempered boss.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 11, 2025

“She mentioned often that Huizar is not of sound mind, had told her he hears voices, was short-tempered and controlling of her actions,” Santucci wrote in his letter to Janis.

From Seattle Times ● May 7, 2024

“We’ve all been hot, moody and short-tempered with each other,” Ms. Kim said, adding, “But we’re finding ways to have fun and entertain ourselves.”

From New York Times ● Jun. 2, 2023

In reality, she was dealing with a short-tempered narcissist who cannot take a joke.

From Salon ● May 1, 2023

The only person who didn’t seem to like the good news or the bad news was Principal McCoy, who only became more short-tempered and irritable after Celia was gone.

From "Made You Up" by Francesca Zappia

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