ornry
In Appalachian and Southern speech, "ornry" (a local pronunciation of "ornery") means irritable, mean-tempered, mischievous, or stubborn - often used for people, animals, or even inanimate things that give you trouble.
#SouthernWords #Appalachia #SpeechandExpressions #Southern #Scoldin’andTeasin’
I hear 'ornry' all the time. Might be referrin' to people or animals... or maybe a weed you caint pull up. Pronunciation
Meaning & Usage
- Mean-Tempered or Irritable (adjective)
Don’t bother Clyde before he’s had coffee - he’s ornry as a snake.- Mischievous or Playfully Troublesome (adjective)
That young’un’s ornry, but he’ll make you laugh while he’s at it.- Stubborn or Contrary (adjective)
That mule’s too ornry to walk the same path twice.Origin
A regional pronunciation of "ornery," itself an American alteration of "ordinary" that shifted in meaning during the 19th century from "commonplace" to "ill-tempered" or "cantankerous." Dropping syllables ("ornry" / "onry") is common in Appalachian and Southern speech.
Notes
It’s often paired with similes: "ornry as a snake," "ornry as an old goat," or "ornry as the day is long." The meaning shifts from playful to harsh based on delivery and context.
Say It Like a Southerner
Most folks drop the middle syllable, so "ornery" becomes "ornry" or even "onry." Start with a quick "orn" (or "on"), then slide straight into "ree." It’s usually said with a touch of amusement when talking about someone’s bad temper or contrary streak.