Langimage
English

curmudgeon

|cur/mud/geon|

C1

🇺🇸

/kərˈmʌdʒən/

🇬🇧

/kəˈmʌdʒən/

grumpy person

Etymology
Etymology Information

'curmudgeon' originates from an unknown origin, but it is speculated to have been influenced by the Middle English word 'curmudgeon,' which meant 'miser.'

Historical Evolution

'curmudgeon' has remained relatively unchanged in its form and meaning since its first recorded use in the 16th century.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'miser,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a bad-tempered person.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a bad-tempered or surly person.

The old man was known as a curmudgeon in the neighborhood.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/31 18:55