I. -lənt adjective
Etymology: Latin or Middle French; Middle French petulant impudent, from Latin petulant-, petulans; akin to Latin petere to go to or toward, seek — more at feather
1. archaic
a. : wanton or immodest in speech or behavior
corrupted … amongst lascivious and petulant men and women — Thomas Tryon
b. : insolent or rude in speech or behavior
as fair a mark as factious animosity and petulant wit could desire — T.B.Macaulay
2.
[influenced in meaning by pet (IV) ]
: characterized by temporary or capricious ill humor : peevish
grew moody and petulant and would not eat — Pearl Buck
developed a petulant and fussy disposition — E.L.Pearson
Synonyms: see irritable
II. noun
( -s )
: a person who is petulant