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Definition of cantankerously

cantankerously

/kænˈtæŋ.kɚ.əs.li/
can · tan · ker · ous · ly
Adjective:cantankerous
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cantankerously Lexical Profile

cantankerously Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a bad-tempered, argumentative, and uncooperative manner.

Example

"The elderly shopkeeper replied cantankerously whenever customers asked if he offered discounts."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for cantankerously

• Nearby Words

cantabrian
cantaloupe
cantankerous
cantankerously
cantata
canteen
canter

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from 'cantankerous' plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'. The base word emerged in the mid-18th century, likely as a blend of Middle English 'contek' (strife, contention) and 'rancorous'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Cantankerously. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/cantankerously
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