What does ornery mean?
Ornery is an adjective that describes someone or something that is bad-tempered, cantankerous, or ill-tempered. It is often used to describe a person who is irritable or short-tempered, but it can also be used to describe a situation or a place that is unpleasant or disagreeable. The word has been in use since the mid-19th century and is thought to have originated from the word 'orneryness', which means a state of being cantankerous or ill-tempered. Ornery is often used in informal contexts, such as in conversation or in writing, and is not typically used in formal or professional settings. It is a useful word to know when describing someone or something that is unpleasant or disagreeable, and can add flavor and interest to one's writing or conversation.
adjectiveHaving a bad or unpleasant disposition; cantankerous; ill-tempered.
- Having a bad or unpleasant disposition; cantankerous; ill-tempered.
"He's been in an ornery mood all day, so it's best to leave him alone."
"He's been in an ornery mood all day, so it's best to leave him alone."
"The old man was in an ornery mood after his car broke down."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of ornery
The word 'ornery' is thought to have originated from the word 'orneryness', which means a state of being cantankerous or ill-tempered. The word 'orneryness' is derived from the word 'ornery', which is an adjective that describes someone or something that is bad-tempered or cantankerous. The word 'ornery' is thought to have originated in the mid-19th century, and is likely derived from the word 'orneryness', which was in use before it.
How ornery is actually used
Ornery is often used to describe someone who is irritable or short-tempered, but it can also be used to describe a situation or a place that is unpleasant or disagreeable.