Langimage
English

testily

|tes/ti/ly|

C1

/ˈtɛstɪli/

(testy)

easily annoyed

Base FormComparativeSuperlative
testytestiertestiest
Etymology
Etymology Information

'testily' originates from the adjective 'testy', which comes from Middle English 'testif', meaning 'headstrong' or 'impetuous'.

Historical Evolution

'testif' transformed into the modern English word 'testy', and the adverbial form 'testily' was derived from it.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'headstrong or impetuous', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'irritable or impatient'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adverb 1

in an irritable or impatient manner.

He replied testily when asked about his day.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45