Testily

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. In a way that reflects irritation or a short temper towards others
2. Characterized by a quickness to become annoyed or snappy in interactions with people
3. In a manner showing signs of impatience or annoyance toward others

Etymology: Testily is a plain formation: the adjective "testy" with the adverbial suffix "-ly" added. "Testy" itself is an older word meaning irritable or quick to take offence, and the adverb simply describes doing something in that manner, so "testily" means with short temper. The adjective "testy" traces back to a Germanic root that is also behind the English "like" and the "-ly" ending, which is why the suffix is essentially the same word as "like" in its older sense of "having the form or appearance of." The suffix descends from the Old English "-līce," which was attached to adjectives to make adverbs. Over time the ending wore down to "-ly," and it now attaches to countless adjectives in the language.

Synonyms: irritably, grumpily

Antonyms: calmly, peacefully