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Definition of crabby

crabby

/ˈkræb.i/
crab · by
Adverb:crabbily
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crabby Lexical Profile

crabby Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Irritable, bad-tempered, and easily annoyed.

Example

"The children became crabby after missing their afternoon nap during the long road trip."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for crabby

• Nearby Words

crabber
crabbily
crabbiness
crabby
crabcake
crabgrass
crablike

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the late 16th century, derived from 'crab', reflecting both the defensive, pinching behavior of the crustacean and the sour, astringent taste of the wild crab apple.

Cite this Entry

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