curmudgeon
noun | /curmudgeon/
Advanced WordsMEDIUM
a bad-tempered, cranky, or complaining person (often an old person, but not always)
curmudgeon
noun | /curmudgeon/
Advanced WordsMEDIUMa bad-tempered, cranky, or complaining person (often an old person, but not always)
Learning Progress
Synonyms
bearbellyachercomplainercrabcrankcroakercrosspatchgrouchfussergripergrousergrowlergrumblergrumpmurmurermutterersourpusswhiner
Antonyms
pollyannahappy campercommenderpraiser
Examples
"The security guard posted at the college gate is a cranky curmudgeon."
"Don’t mind her complaints—she can be a bit of a curmudgeon in the mornings."
"Because of her stubborn dislike of change, Sarah is often called a curmudgeon."
Mnemonic Trick
Think of “cur-mud-geon” → like someone stuck in mud, grumpy and unwilling to move.
Etymology
Origin uncertain, perhaps from French cori/mud + geon; early use means grumpy old man.
Used for a cantankerous, complaining person.
Source: Advanced WordsAdded: 9/12/2025
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