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Showing results for short-tempered. Search instead for strong-tempered.
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.

See Examples For:

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

“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

In reality, she was dealing with a short-tempered narcissist who cannot take a joke.

From Salon May 1, 2023

Master was always short-tempered on days like this.

From "Half of a Yellow Sun" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

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