The phrase combines petulant, from Latin petulans, meaning forward, impudent, or insolent, with child. In modern English, petulant narrowed toward the idea of childish sulkiness or irritated impatience, which makes it a natural modifier for child and for adults being criticized as childish.
What does petulant child mean?
It means a child who behaves in a sulky, impatient, or bad-tempered way, especially when the behavior seems unreasonable or childish.
Can petulant child be used for an adult?
Yes. It is often used figuratively for an adult who is acting childish, sulky, or irritated.
Is petulant child insulting?
It can be. The phrase judges the behavior sharply, so it may sound critical or dismissive.
Is a petulant child the same as a tired child?
No. A tired child may simply need rest, while a petulant child is described as sulky, impatient, or unreasonable.
What are synonyms for petulant child?
Synonyms include sulky child, irritable child, bad-tempered child, peevish child, cranky child, and whiny child.
What is the opposite of a petulant child?
Possible opposites include a cheerful child, patient child, pleasant child, good-natured child, or calm child.
How do you use petulant child in a sentence?
For example: The petulant child crossed his arms and refused to apologize.