fretful Definition
feeling or expressing distress or irritation.
Using fretful: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "fretful" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The baby was fretful and wouldn't stop crying.
Example
She was feeling fretful about the upcoming exam.
Example
He had a fretful expression on his face all day.
Example
The dog was acting fretful and wouldn't sit still.
fretful Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with fretful
Example
She had a fretful sleep the night before the big presentation.
Example
Don't be such a fretful porcupine, it's just a minor setback.
Example
He was on a fretful edge all day, snapping at everyone who crossed his path.
Origins of fretful
from Old English 'fretan', meaning 'to devour, consume'
Summary: fretful in Brief
'Fretful' [ˈfrɛtfʊl] describes a state of distress or irritation, often due to anxiety or worry. It can be seen in people, animals, and even sleep patterns, as in 'fretful sleep.' The phrase 'fretful porcupine' refers to someone who is easily irritated, while 'fretful edge' denotes a state of nervousness that makes someone irritable.
