Grouchiness is an emotional state that often involves feelings of irritability, annoyance, and dissatisfaction. Synonyms for grouchiness include crankiness, grumpiness, surliness, peevishness, and discontentment. Crankiness refers to a more persistent or chronic irritability or moodiness. Grumpiness suggests a disposition toward being easily irritated or complaining. Surliness implies a rough and unfriendly manner. Peevishness refers to an unreasonably irritable or sulky attitude. Discontentment indicates a general dissatisfaction with one's circumstances or situation. Whatever term is used to describe it, grouchiness is not a pleasant state of mind, and most people would prefer to avoid it if possible.