The word "cranky" has an interesting spelling. It consists of six letters, but it is pronounced with only two syllables. The first syllable is stressed and contains the sound /kr/, which is made by combining the voiceless velar plosive /k/ with the voiced alveolar fricative /r/. The second syllable contains the sound /i/, which is a short vowel pronounced with the tongue in a neutral position. The final sound is the voiceless velar nasal /ŋ/, which is pronounced with the back of the tongue touching the soft palate.
The term "cranky" refers to a state or disposition characterized by irritability, grouchiness, or a generally ill-tempered attitude. When a person is described as being cranky, it typically implies that they are easily annoyed or frustrated, and may exhibit a negative or grumpy demeanor. This can manifest in a wide range of behaviors, such as complaining frequently, being short-tempered in response to minor inconveniences, or displaying a general lack of patience or tolerance.
A cranky individual may exhibit a noticeable change in mood, becoming particularly irritable or ill-humored. This change often occurs due to various factors, including lack of sleep, physical discomfort, stress, or other underlying emotional issues. While crankiness is a common human emotion that can occur to anyone from time to time, certain individuals may display a more persistent or chronic crankiness due to personal traits or underlying health conditions.
The term "cranky" can also be used to describe inanimate objects that are difficult to operate or prone to unpredictable behavior. For instance, a malfunctioning machine or a damaged door hinge might be referred to as "cranky." In this context, “cranky” implies that these objects are temperamental or prone to behaving in an erratic or unpredictable manner.
Inclined to heel over, as a ship that wants steadiness; liable to be upset.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "cranky" has its origins in the 19th century and is believed to be an alteration of the word "crank", which originally meant "a turning handle or arm". This original meaning of "crank" was extended metaphorically to refer to people who were ill-tempered, irritable, or difficult to manage, possibly because they were likened to the unpredictable, jerking motion of a crank handle. Over time, "cranky" came to be used more broadly to describe anyone who is in a bad mood, irritable, or easily annoyed.