short-tempered
Americanadjective
adjective
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.
When she gets home from work, she worries she can be too short-tempered with her children.
From BBC ● Apr. 17, 2026
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
He yawns at meals, is short-tempered with the younger children.
From "All the Light We Cannot See" by Anthony Doerr
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
