1. easily angered, irritable, or quarrelsome; prone to arguing or complaining
2. (of a child or animal) difficult to control; unruly or restless

Examples

• The fractious toddler refused to eat his vegetables and threw a tantrum.
• After losing the game, the team's fractious coach blamed everyone but himself.
• The fractious debate in Congress lasted for hours without reaching any agreement.
• A fractious horse can be dangerous if not handled with patience and skill.
• Her fractious mood improved once she had a good night's sleep.
• The fractious members of the committee could never agree on a budget.
• The baby became fractious and irritable as teething began.