short fuse

American  

noun

1. a quick temper.

   A person with a short fuse has to be handled diplomatically.

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short fuse British  

noun

1. informal a quick temper

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Etymology

Origin of short fuse

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

The author is a fan of this feminist hero but acknowledges that Rankin was a family tyrant with a short fuse.

From The Wall Street Journal

Maynes remembers Combs having a short fuse in the office, sometimes banging "his hands up against the desk" like a "bratty kid" and yelling if he did not get his way.

From BBC

There is no doubt that graphic illustration of a short fuse will see Nunez's temperament tested now, but this chastening evening will surely form the basis of a vital learning experience.

From BBC

The minus-23 rating next to Drew Doughty’s name is difficult to look past, especially for a player with a short fuse for mediocrity.

From Los Angeles Times