adjective

verdrießlich

grumpy · sullen

Definition & meaning

The adjective verdrießlich describes a person who is in a grumpy, sulky, or ill-tempered mood. It characterizes someone who is easily annoyed, dissatisfied, or displays a visible lack of enthusiasm or cheerfulness.

In describing a person's temperament: Someone who is prone to complaining or acting cantankerous due to a bad mood or displeasure.
In describing a situation or task: Something that is annoying, vexing, or unpleasant to deal with.

Grammar & Word origin

Grammar: It is an adjective that can be inflected according to the case, gender, and number of the noun it describes. It is often used with the verb sein (to be) or wirken (to appear).

Word origin: The word is derived from the Middle High German verdrießlich. It is closely related to the verb verdrießen (to vex, to annoy, or to cause displeasure). It stems from the Old High German far-driozan, indicating a state of being weary, troubled, or disgusted.