# cranky

/ˈkɹæŋki/ (US) · /kɹˈæŋki/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cranky
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

easily annoyed or in a bad mood. You might feel this way when you are tired or hungry.

For teachers: irritable or easily vexed; prone to ill-tempered behavior. Often used to describe children or adults who are tired or physically uncomfortable.

## Examples

- The baby gets very cranky when he misses his nap.
- I am always a bit cranky in the morning before I have my first cup of coffee.
- The long flight and lack of sleep left the entire tour group feeling cranky and impatient with the local guides.

## Usage notes

- Typically used predicatively after linking verbs like 'feel', 'get', or 'become'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.