Here are some synonyms for cantankerous:
* Bad-tempered
* Grumpy
* Crabby
* Irritable
* Cross
* Sullen
* Argumentative
* Contrarian
* Difficult
* Uncooperative
Here are some examples of how you might use "cantankerous" in a sentence:
* "The old man was a cantankerous neighbor who complained about everything."
* "The team's performance was hampered by the cantankerous coach who constantly criticized the players."
* "Despite her cantankerous nature, she was actually quite intelligent and insightful."