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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.

Buckley said the effects of Arlo's brain injury have also changed his behaviour and personality, leaving him more short-tempered, easily frustrated and tired.

From BBC • Mar. 1, 2026

“People were waiting longer than usual for their food and that makes them short-tempered and impatient,” recalls Tyler Trautman, a shift leader.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 13, 2023

“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

That includes comedian Sinbad, who would reprise his role as the short-tempered schoolteacher Mr. Wheat.

From Los Angeles Times • May 22, 2023

Some are more short-tempered than others, but on one occasion I had a whole team mad at me.

From "Woodsong" by Gary Paulsen

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