Strop

A fit of pique, a huff. To be "in a strop" is to be discontent, disgruntled or just plain angry. Normally refers to a silent state of ire, which only expresses itself when the stroppy one is shamelessly provoked by unreasonable questions such as "Would you like a cup of tea?"

As indicated in the above construction, the adjective "stroppy" describes somebody who is in a strop, or who demonstrates behaviour associated with such a state.

Strop (?), n. [See Strap.]

A strap; specifically, same as Strap, 3.

© Webster 1913.

Strop, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Stropped (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Stropping.]

To draw over, or rub upon, a strop with a view to sharpen; as, to strop a razor.

© Webster 1913.

Strop, n. [Cf. F. estrope, 'etrope, fr. L. struppus. See Strop a strap.] Naut.

A piece of rope spliced into a circular wreath, and put round a block for hanging it.

© Webster 1913.