peckish

[pek-ish]

adjective

Chiefly British Informal.

1. somewhat hungry.

   By noon we were feeling a bit peckish.

2. rather irritable.

   He's always a bit peckish after his nap.

peckish

/ ˈpɛkɪʃ /

adjective

1. informal,  feeling slightly hungry; having an appetite

Word History and Origins

Origin of peckish¹

First recorded in 1775–85; peck ¹ + -ish ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of peckish¹

C18: from _peck ²

Example Sentences

Mahaffy, who starred in the exuberant revival of “A Man of No Importance” at A Noise Within last season, is more insistently peckish — hungry rather than hangry.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

And that in whatever jazzy afterlife exists for wayward novelists, they’re up there ashing carelessly into their martinis, and letting ids and peckish wildcats run free.

Read more on New York Times

After a peckish day of few feeds — because mum had been busy putting opponents through the wringer — 10-month-old Athéna made amends that night.

Read more on Seattle Times

Rescuers then realised that along with climbing equipment, Wotsits were needed - the lunchbox staple to which the peckish parrot was partial.

Read more on BBC

Still, the book’s vibe makes it pleasant company for an afternoon in the park with a snack, though it will still leave you feeling peckish.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• dehydrated www.thesaurus.com
• dying 
• emaciated 
• hungry 
• malnourished 
• undernourished