Langimage
English

short-tempered

|short-tem-pered|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˌʃɔrtˈtɛmpərd/

🇬🇧

/ˌʃɔːtˈtɛmpəd/

easily angered

Etymology
Etymology Information

'short-tempered' originates from the combination of 'short' and 'tempered,' where 'short' refers to a brief duration and 'tempered' relates to one's disposition or mood.

Historical Evolution

'short-tempered' evolved from the Middle English word 'tempered,' which meant 'having a particular disposition,' combined with 'short' to indicate brevity of patience.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'having a brief disposition,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'easily angered.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

having a tendency to become angry quickly or easily.

He is known to be short-tempered, so be careful what you say.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/02/05 23:21