Main Entry: pet·u·lant

Pronunciation: \-lənt\

Function: adjective

Etymology: Latin or Middle French; Middle French, from Latin petulant-, petulans; akin to Latin petere to go to, attack, seek — more at feather

Date: 1598

1 : insolent or rude in speech or behavior
2 : characterized by temporary or capricious ill humor : peevish

— pet·u·lant·ly adverb