Definition of "peevish" in English

adjective

1. Constantly complaining, especially in a childish way due to insignificant matters; fretful, whiny.

   • Due to the long wait, there were several peevish patients in the doctor’s waiting room.

2. Quick to become bad-tempered or cross, especially due to insignificant matters; irritable, pettish, petulant.

   • I would rather figure things out on my own than ask that peevish librarian for help.

3. (Canada, Northern England, figurative) Of weather: blustery, windy; also, of wind: cold and strong; bitter, sharp.

4. Coy, modest.

5. Foolish, silly.

6. Harmful, injurious; also, mischievous; or malicious, spiteful.

7. Impulsive and unpredictable; capricious, fickle.

8. Obstinately in the wrong; perverse, stubborn.

9. Out of one's mind; mad.

10. Of a thing: evoking a feeling of distaste, horror, etc.

11. Clever, skilful.

adverb

1. (obsolete) Synonym of peevishly (“in a peevish manner: whiningly; irritably, petulantly; etc.”).