1
as in clumsy
difficult to use or operate especially because of size, weight, or design
that old typewriter is handy sometimes, but rather cranky these days
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in irritable
easily irritated or annoyed
the baby was cranky after not being fed for hours
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in restless
given to complaining a lot
if cranky children don't appreciate what they already have, then they shouldn't get a thing more
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
4
as in funny
different from the ordinary in a way that causes curiosity or suspicion
that's just another of his cranky theories about the CIA
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
5
as in psychotic
dialect
having or showing a very abnormal or sick state of mind
the man would inflict on innocent bystanders his cranky ruminations on world events
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of cranky
Meanwhile, a cranky back and shoulder fatigue delayed Clarke Schmidt and forced him to start the year on the injured list.
—
Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 23 Mar. 2025
Rangers appreciate the annual cleanups led by climbers, and although some older climbers prefer their status as outlaws, even the cranky big-wall pirates muster for mountain rescues.
—Brad Wieners, The New Yorker, 3 Mar. 2025
Elaine Mitchell, who supervised and collected tolls for more than 20 years, says the toll booth experience opens up a window into drivers of every stripe, from the perpetually cranky to those that offer serenades with their money.
—Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 23 Jan. 2025
Schmidt’s Spring Debut Clarke Schmidt, who saw his schedule delayed by a cranky back, made his spring debut against the Orioles on Tuesday.
—Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 11 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for cranky
Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 23 Mar. 2025
Rangers appreciate the annual cleanups led by climbers, and although some older climbers prefer their status as outlaws, even the cranky big-wall pirates muster for mountain rescues.
—Brad Wieners, The New Yorker, 3 Mar. 2025
Elaine Mitchell, who supervised and collected tolls for more than 20 years, says the toll booth experience opens up a window into drivers of every stripe, from the perpetually cranky to those that offer serenades with their money.
—Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 23 Jan. 2025
Schmidt’s Spring Debut Clarke Schmidt, who saw his schedule delayed by a cranky back, made his spring debut against the Orioles on Tuesday.
—Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 11 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for cranky
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cranky
Adjective
-
Raw also advertised Bayley challenging Lyra Valkyria for the WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship, Penta vs. Dominik Mysterio and the world’s most clumsy GM Adam Pearce making his next fumble of the worst storyline going this WrestleMania season between Rhea Ripley, Bianca Belair and Iyo Sky.—
Alfred Konuwa,
Forbes.com,
7 Apr. 2025
-
This is why the Trump administration’s DOGE exercise — while clumsy at times — is such an important endeavor despite Democratic efforts to discredit it.—
Editorial,
Boston Herald,
4 Apr. 2025
Adjective
-
And even in what was a stilted match played in an increasingly irritable atmosphere, Rogers and Tielemans delivered with an assist each.—
Jacob Tanswell,
New York Times,
14 Apr. 2025
-
This stretch can worsen pain in people with back pain, very tight hamstrings, or irritable nerves.—
Aubrey Bailey, PT, DPT, CHT,
Verywell Health,
4 Apr. 2025
Adjective
-
This tender and slow hour isn’t for the restless, but a cathartic cry waits for those who make it to the end.—
Christian Holub,
EW.com,
18 Apr. 2025
-
Add to that formula a volcanic voice and songs soaked in a restless spirit, and Dean has managed to set himself apart in a crowded country field.—
Nancy Kruh,
People.com,
15 Apr. 2025
Adjective
-
And makes a funny joke about giving Glenn Close an Oscar.—
Andy Hoglund,
EW.com,
13 Apr. 2025
-
His being handsome, funny and not known for comedy was a real asset.—
Rosa Escandon,
Forbes.com,
13 Apr. 2025
Adjective
-
The counselor also told police Trotman had had a previous psychotic break in which he was found wandering the woods.—
Peter Hermann,
Washington Post,
7 Feb. 2023
-
Lewis prescribed Price anti-psychotic medication after a mental health referral Sept. 1.—
Thomas Saccente,
Arkansas Online,
17 Jan. 2023
Adjective
-
For introverts who might naturally lean toward a prevention focus—fearing rejection or awkward interactions—consciously developing a promotion focus can transform their job search approach.—
Caroline Castrillon,
Forbes.com,
18 Apr. 2025
-
Its Darcy, Matthew MacFadyen, was in his late 20s and still had an awkward, youthful reserve that turned out to be perfect for this version’s take on the handsome, distant gentleman who falls for Elizabeth.—
Bilge Ebiri,
Vulture,
18 Apr. 2025
Adjective
-
Many people might be harsh today, because this is a grumpy day!—
Georgia Nicols,
Denver Post,
13 Apr. 2025
-
Labradors are known for their friendly and playful nature, while bulldogs, despite their sometimes grumpy demeanor, can be affectionate and loyal companions.—
Thomas G. Moukawsher,
Newsweek,
20 Mar. 2025
Adjective
-
Continue reading … 'THIS IS SO CRAZY' – DOGE reveals bizarre findings of unemployment insurance claims.—
FOXNews.com,
FOXNews.com,
10 Apr. 2025
-
This seemingly bizarre combination took Sellitto by surprise in the best way possible.—
Tereza Shkurtaj,
People.com,
12 Apr. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Cranky.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cranky. Accessed 25 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share