petulant
Say it: PET-yuh-lunt /ˈpɛtjʊl(ə)nt/ · adjective
What “petulant” means
Sulky or bad-tempered in a childish way.
More precisely: Childishly sulky or bad-tempered.
Example: “He gave a petulant shrug when the referee showed him the yellow card.”
When to use it
A disapproving word for childish sulking or irritability when someone does not get what they want.
Similar words
sulky, peevish, sullen
Where it comes from
From Latin petulans, petulant-, 'impudent'.
Quick check
When his friends choose a different film, a grown man folds his arms and refuses to speak. His reaction is…
reserved or petulant?
Show the answer
petulant
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