Literary notes about miffed (AI summary)
In literature, “miffed” is frequently employed to convey a mild, often understated sense of annoyance or discontent, suggesting emotional discomfort without erupting into overt anger. Characters described as miffed might exhibit subtle, pensive irritability—whether it’s a group of individuals showing a reserved displeasure ([1]) or a solitary figure whose quiet vexation colors his interactions ([2], [3]). The word also appears in more humorous or self-deprecating contexts, as authors use it to denote minor grievances that add nuance to a character’s demeanor ([4], [5]). Across narratives, “miffed” serves as a gentle marker for inner turmoil or wounded pride, enriching both dialogue and character development through its understated yet evocative tone ([6], [7]).
- The four kickers looked miffed but they didn’t try any hatefulness with her, so far as I could see.
— from Marjorie Dean, College Senior by Josephine Chase - He looked a bit miffed and sulky when they didn't protrude.
— from Taking Chances by Clarence Louis Cullen - "Very good, sir," he said in his pompous Tyringham manner, but I saw that he was miffed by my indifference.
— from Lady Larkspur by Meredith Nicholson - miffed , a. offended, displeased, piqued, provoked.
— from Putnam's Word Book A Practical Aid in Expressing Ideas Through the Use of an Exact and Varied Vocabulary by Louis A. (Louis Andrew) Flemming - Young Mr. Wickert looked at once self-conscious and a trifle miffed, for in his own set he was regarded as quite the mould of fashion.
— from Success: A Novel by Samuel Hopkins Adams - Elizabeth Walbert was surprised and miffed because Dulcie had not confided in her.
— from Marjorie Dean, College Junior by Josephine Chase - I declare I never in my life inserted a word between the columns of the Athenæum : I feel huffed and miffed at the very supposition.
— from A Budget of Paradoxes, Volume II by Augustus De Morgan
