irascible
/ɪˈɹæs.ə.bəl/
Group 9Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Having or showing a tendency to be easily angered GRE
Example in Context
The irascible professor was feared by students but respected by colleagues who recognized the brilliance beneath the prickly exterior.
Synonyms
hot-temperedirritablecranky
Etymology
Directly denotes a tendency towards anger.
- irasci (Latin) — to become angry
Memory Aid
😡Sounds like “irascible”
Picture a RAGE-fueled raccoon throwing a tantrum because someone stole its snack — so IRASCIBLE!
Visual Association
🔥A cartoon character with smoke coming out of its ears, fuming over a minor inconvenience.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “irascible” mean on the GRE?
irascible (adjective) means “Having or showing a tendency to be easily angered”. The irascible professor was feared by students but respected by colleagues who recognized the brilliance beneath the prickly exterior.
How to remember “irascible” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “irascible” sounds like “irascible”. Picture a RAGE-fueled raccoon throwing a tantrum because someone stole its snack — so IRASCIBLE!
What are synonyms for “irascible”?
Common synonyms: hot-tempered, irritable, cranky.