peevish
UK[ˈpiːvɪʃ]US[ˈpiːvɪʃ]
adj
easily annoyed, especially by unimportant things; irritable and bad-tempered.
Etymology
the word "peevish" entered english in the late 14th century from the anglo-norman "pevish" or "pavis," meaning foolish, mad, or capricious. its ultimate origin is uncertain, but it is likely imitative or expressive in nature, perhaps related to the latin "perversus" (perverse) or formed from a sound associated with fretful complaint. over time, its meaning narrowed from a general sense of foolishness or perversity to specifically describe a querulous, irritable, and easily annoyed disposition. the word's journey reflects a common pattern where a term for a general negative trait evolves to capture a more specific, nuanced character flaw.
Analysis
this word is a simplex. it is a loanword from anglo-norman and middle english, where its form and meaning were consolidated as a whole.
Examples
the lack of sleep made him unusually peevish and short with his colleagues.
she dismissed his criticism as nothing more than a peevish complaint.
the old man grew increasingly peevish in his later years, frustrated by the slightest inconvenience.