Petulant/ˈpetʃələnt/ Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation Describes negative behavior or attitude, potentially seen as rude or spoiled. Her petulant outburst made everyone uncomfortable. Pro Tip 2/3Grown-ups Too Not just for kids; adults can be labeled 'petulant' when acting childishly. The meeting ended with a petulant slamming of doors. Pro Tip 3/3Emotional Charge Use 'petulant' to describe emotional reactions, not logical ones. His petulant refusal to cooperate was visibly emotional.