curmudgeon Definition
a bad-tempered, difficult, or cantankerous person.
Using curmudgeon: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "curmudgeon" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The old man who lived next door was a curmudgeon who never spoke to anyone.
Example
My boss is a bit of a curmudgeon, but he's a great boss overall.
Example
He's such a curmudgeon that he complains about everything.
curmudgeon Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using curmudgeon
a curmudgeon's heart
a kind or generous nature that is hidden behind a gruff or irritable exterior
Example
Despite his reputation as a curmudgeon, he had a curmudgeon's heart and was always willing to help those in need.
a curmudgeon's corner
a place where a grumpy or irritable person can be alone and avoid social interaction
Example
After a long day at work, I like to retreat to my curmudgeon's corner and read a book.
a curmudgeon's complaint
a minor or petty complaint made by a grumpy or irritable person
Example
His curmudgeon's complaint was that the coffee was too hot.
Phrases with curmudgeon
an elderly person who is grumpy and irritable
Example
The old curmudgeon next door always yells at us when we play music too loud.
an ill-tempered and irritable person, especially an older one
Example
My grandfather can be a crotchety curmudgeon, but we still love him.
a person who is grumpy or irritable but still likable
Example
Despite his gruff exterior, my uncle is a lovable curmudgeon who always makes us laugh.
Origins of curmudgeon
originally from the now-obsolete English word 'curmudgeon', meaning 'a miser'
Summary: curmudgeon in Brief
'Curmudgeon' [ker-muhj-uhn] refers to a bad-tempered, difficult, or cantankerous person. It is often used to describe an elderly person who is grumpy and irritable, or someone who complains a lot. The term has idiomatic uses, such as 'a curmudgeon's heart,' which refers to a kind or generous nature hidden behind a gruff exterior.
