cantankerous

Cantankerous is an English adjective used to describe someone who is bad-tempered, combative, and uncooperative. A cantankerous person tends to argue, resent change, and resist requests or cooperation. The term can apply to people, animals, or even abstract behavior.

Etymology: The precise origins of cantankerous are uncertain. It entered English in the 19th century, with early usages in American sources. Some dictionaries note that the word likely arose as a blend or extension of dialect words for stubborn or disagreeable behavior; the exact components are not established.

Usage and nuance: Cantankerous is usually mildly pejorative and often humorous or affectionate when describing a familiar elder or character. It signals persistent irritability rather than a momentary mood. It is commonly used in informal speech and writing; more severe terms include irascible or ill-tempered.

Forms and related terms: The adverb cantankerously and the noun cantankerousness exist. Related synonyms include grouchy, cranky, ornery, stubborn; antonyms include amiable, good-natured, agreeable. The word often collocates with "old" as in "a cantankerous old man," or with "neighbor" or "cat" in lighthearted contexts.

Example: The cantankerous neighbor complained about every new fence policy.