crab
Translation
crab, grump
Examples
We saw a small crab on the beach.
We saw a small crab on the beach.
Don't be such a crab, it's a lovely day.
Don't be such a crab, it's a lovely day.
Grammar Patterns
((a/the)) crab a sea creature with a shell We saw a small crab on the beach.
((a)) crab a grumpy person Don't be such a crab, it's a lovely day.
Similar Words
Synonyms: crustacean; grump, curmudgeon
Etymology
From Old English *crabba*. The sense of 'an irritable person' likely comes from the animal's sideways, seemingly cross manner of walking.
Memory Tips
Picture a crab snapping its claws angrily to remember the meaning 'a grumpy person'.