What does the term 'petulant' describe?

The term 'petulant' describes someone who is moody and easily irritated, often showing sudden, impatient irritation or anger. It is often used to characterize a person, particularly when they react in a child-like or sulky manner over trivial matters. This nuanced definition underscores the quality of being irritable and prone to fits of bad temper, which clearly aligns with the meaning of 'petulant.'

In context, choices that describe calmness, aggression, or cheerfulness do not capture the essence of 'petulant.' Instead, the person described as petulant tends to exhibit a lack of patience or a willingness to become upset over small inconveniences. This makes the understanding of 'petulant' particularly relevant in social interactions where emotional responses may be exaggerated or seem unjustified.