cantankerous
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
But after Christopher left, Julian became a shell of his former self — a cantankerous curmudgeon, known more for his Simon Cowell-esque criticism on the long-running reality show “Art Fight” than his work.
From Salon • Apr. 17, 2026
Playing a confounding, cantankerous old painter who hasn’t touched a canvas in at least 20 years, Mr. McKellen delivers yet another marvelous late-career highlight.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026
Whether the subject was toys, fish or a cantankerous old man, the Emeryville-based computer animation studio churned out hit after hit.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 19, 2025
Known for his cantankerous, no-nonsense business dealings and his "you're fired/hired" catchphrase, Lord Sugar insists his on-screen persona is how he is in real life.
From BBC • Mar. 19, 2025
“I guess this cantankerous woman is getting out of here,” Gramps said.
From "Walk Two Moons" by Sharon Creech
Vocabulary lists containing cantankerous
In the Mood? 100 Words to Describe Emotions
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Negative Words to Describe a Person
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Curmudgeon, Cantankerous and Churlish: Grouchy Words
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