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

The baritone, Vincent Casagrande, a marvelously cantankerous Prisoner, tells us only sick people dream, and of course everyone on stage automatically enters a dream state.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 27, 2026

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

Uncle locked himself in his room for one whole night and the next day came out as cantankerous as ever.

From "Dragonwings" by Laurence Yep