Pronunciation: [mˈɪft] (IPA) 
The word "miffed" is spelled with the letters m-i-f-f-e-d. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced /mɪft/. The "m" sound is made by closing the lips and humming, followed by the short "i" sound made by raising the tongue to the front of the mouth. Next is the "f" sound made by blowing air through the lips, and then repeating the "f" sound for the next syllable. The word means to feel irritated, annoyed, or offended.
Miffed is an adjective used to describe someone who is annoyed, disgruntled, or slightly angered. It refers to a state of feeling slighted or offended by something, causing a mild sense of irritation or displeasure.
When someone is miffed, they might demonstrate an emotional reaction or display signs of being upset, particularly when their expectations or desires are not met. Characteristics associated with feeling miffed may include a certain degree of frustration, irritation, or discontentment. However, it is important to note that being miffed generally implies a lesser level of anger or annoyance compared to stronger emotions such as rage or fury.
The term is often used in informal conversations or more casual contexts to express a minor annoyance or a feeling of being put out. For example, if a friend cancels plans at the last minute, you might say you are miffed because you were looking forward to spending time together.
In summary, being miffed signifies a mild state of irritation or annoyance resulting from feeling slighted or disappointed. It is a term commonly used to describe a minor level of frustration and dissatisfaction, expressing a sense of being put out or let down, but without reaching the intensity of stronger negative emotions.
The word "miffed" originated in early 17th century England, but its exact etymology is uncertain. It is believed to have its roots in Middle Dutch or Middle Low German, as there are similar words in those languages such as "muffen" or "muffe", meaning "to be in a bad mood" or "not to like". Another theory suggests that it may be related to the Old Norse word "möskva", meaning "to give offense". Over time, "miffed" evolved to describe a feeling of annoyance, displeasure, or being slightly offended.
