Meaning & use

curmudgeon

noun·Advanced

Last updated

A bad-tempered, often elderly person who is easily annoyed and quick to complain.

See it in a sentence

The old curmudgeon next door yells at kids who step on his lawn.

Despite his curmudgeon reputation, he was surprisingly kind to new employees.

A note on using this word

Often used affectionately or humorously rather than as a harsh insult.

Words with a similar meaning

grouchgrump

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