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fractious

Adjective

IPA /ˈfrækʃəs/

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Meaning in plain English

Easily irritated and likely to complain, argue or become upset, especially when tired, uncomfortable or frustrated by small problems.

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Pronunciation

fractious/ˈfrækʃəs/

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A long journey tires a child
Small problems become upsetting
The child complains and becomes irritable

A fractious child is easily upset, especially when tired or uncomfortable.

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The tired toddler became fractious during the long journey home.
The group grew fractious after three hours of discussion without a break.

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The tired toddler became ________ during the long journey home.

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fractious — Easily irritated and likely to complain, argue or become upset, especially when tired, uncomfortable or frustrated by small problems.

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Easily irritated and likely to complain, argue or become upset, especially when tired, uncomfortable or frustrated by small problems.

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Word origin

Formed from fraction in the late seventeenth century.

Did you know?

In British English, fractious often describes a tired child who becomes upset easily.

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