I. splə̇ˈned.ik, -netik, -ēk adjective
Etymology: Late Latin spleneticus, from Latin splen spleen + -eticus -etic — more at spleen
1. : of, relating to, or acting upon the spleen : splenic
2.
a. obsolete : having an improperly functioning spleen : afflicted with excessive spleen secretion
b. archaic : characterized by or liable to produce melancholy, depression, or moodiness
I could be as splenetic as you … but my resolution is … never to be melancholy — William Cowper
3. : marked by morose bad temper, sullen malevolence, or spiteful, peevish anger
heavily biased … his book is also splenetic in tone — Times Literary Supplement
splenetic and railing misanthropy — T.L.Peacock
Synonyms: see irascible
II. noun
( -s )
: a peevish irritable person