Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

cranky

[krang-kee] / ˈkræŋ ki /
ADJECTIVE
in bad mood
Synonyms
STRONGEST
cantankerous grouchy grumpy irascible irritable ornery ugly
WEAK
bad-humored bearish choleric crabby cross crotchety cussed disagreeable got up on wrong side of bed hot-tempered ill-humored like a bear mean out of sorts perverse quick-tempered ratty snappish tetchy vinegary
Antonyms
STRONGEST
cheerful happy nice pleasant
WEAK
amiable

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In reality, though, it’s the options premium they really like, and they tend to get cranky if the stock declines and they must buy it.

From Barron's • Feb. 25, 2026

Or Santos bristling at her new boss’s insistence on clearing her charting backlog while tending cranky patients.

From Salon • Jan. 8, 2026

"Let's just get pizza back at the house," he sighed - the kids were getting cranky and needed a shower.

From BBC • Dec. 15, 2025

I don’t even need you to be there, but if you’re going to be there, if you could not be cranky, that would be great.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 19, 2025

“Scythe Volta is always cranky after a gleaning,” Esme leaned over to tell Rowan.

From "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman