The word "onery" is often misspelled as "ornery" due to its obscure origin and pronunciation. It is pronounced as /ˈoʊ.nər.i/ with the stress on the second syllable. The word means stubborn, ornery, or difficult to deal with. It is possible that the word is derived from the word "ordinary" with the O sound changing to the A sound over time. However, some sources suggest it may have connections to Old French and Scottish dialects. Despite the confusion surrounding its origin and spelling, "onery" remains a widely recognized term in the English language.
The term "onery" is an adjective used to describe someone or something that is difficult, stubborn, or irritable. It is often used colloquially in American English, specifically in the southern region. The word is typically spelled "ornery" in standard dictionaries.
When applied to individuals, being "onery" suggests a temperament characterized by a contrary or unpleasant disposition. It implies a strong-willed and uncooperative nature, often manifesting as willful defiance, stubbornness, or an inclination to provoke discord. For example, a person who consistently refuses to follow directions or comply with rules might be described as onery.
When describing objects or circumstances, "onery" depicts something that is problematic, inconvenient, or difficult to deal with. It suggests a sense of frustration or annoyance that accompanies dealing with such a situation. For instance, a malfunctioning and temperamental computer that regularly crashes or freezes can be described as onery.
In sum, the term "onery" is a regional variant of "ornery" and is used to describe a person or object that is difficult, stubborn, uncooperative, or irritable. While its meaning has slightly shifted over time and across different regions, being onery generally entails a sense of exasperation or annoyance when dealing with such individuals or situations.
The word "onery" or "ornery" is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 19th century. Its exact etymology is uncertain, but it is thought to be a variation or corruption of the word "ordinary". The spelling and pronunciation may have been altered over time to reflect the regional dialects and accents of different areas in the US. "Onery" or "ornery" is used to describe someone as mean-spirited, stubborn, or difficult to deal with.