Need another word for Fretful? Use these synonyms of Fretful from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
anxious
worried
uneasy
apprehensive
nervous
irritable
peevish
testy
cranky
cross
petulant
querulous
discontented
dissatisfied
restless
fidgety
on edge
high-strung
tense
strained
agitated
upset
disturbed
vexed
irritated
annoyed
exasperated
frustrated
displeased
discontent
ill-tempered
short-tempered
quick-tempered
snappish
waspish
spiteful
resentful
bitter
indignant
irate
angry
infuriated
incensed
indignant
Meaning of Fretful
Feeling or expressing anxiety or irritation
Definitions
- Feeling or expressing anxiety or irritation, especially about something that is happening or might happen
- * Having or showing a feeling of worry or annoyance
Etymology of Fretful
The word "fretful" has its roots in Old English and Middle English, derived from the word "fretan," which means "to eat away" or "to gnaw," and is related to the Old Norse word "freta," meaning "to rub" or "to chafe"
Historically, the word "fretful" was used to describe something that was worn away or corroded, but over time, its meaning expanded to include a range of emotions, including anxiety, irritation, and discontent
Example Uses
- The child was fretful and restless, unable to sleep due to the noise outside
- * She was fretful about the upcoming exam, feeling unprepared and anxious
- * The fretful expression on his face revealed his deep concern about the situation