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.

While Virginio Gayda was pettishly scolding Swiss newspapers for belittling Italy's contribution to the victory, Italian troops entered two South Dalmatian ports and the Roman press hopefully remembered Venetian colonies in Dalmatia 150 years ago.

From Time Magazine Archive

When the final appropriations bill came to the House floor late last Friday night, Cannon pettishly demanded a quorum call.

From Time Magazine Archive

Several generations of Frenchmen and foreigners had pettishly asked this rhetorical question.

From Time Magazine Archive

When a joke lays an egg, he will pettishly blame his writers.

From Time Magazine Archive

Ned was offended and turned to Sallie for consolation, saying to her rather pettishly, “There isn’t a bit of flirt in that girl, is there?”

From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott