Michelle Paver

I live on my own, happily, and I've never wanted children, but it did occur to me one day that there's part of me in 'Torak' - he's a loner, I'm a loner - as there's part of me in 'Renn,' who's quite waspish. I think, in some senses, 'Torak' is the son I never had.

British Novelist

Nathan Myhrvold

Most visions of extraterrestrial life are actually steeped in human hubris. The fictional extraterrestrials of 'Star Trek' or a hundred other space operas are less alien than many of my neighbors. And funny, the ones running the place are mostly WASPish men.

American Businessman

Waspish describes more than being upset; it implies a sharp, bitter type of annoyance or irritation.

Negative Emotion

When describing a person's expression as waspish, it suggests a visibly annoyed, displeased, or snappy demeanor.

Facial Expression

Waspish behavior can be indirect, not confronting someone openly but with clear undertones of annoyance.

Not Always Direct

Waspish comments are more than just criticism; they're intended to sting or be particularly hurtful.

Severity of Critique

Waspish criticism may be sharp, but it also can display cleverness or a quick mind.

Often Intellectual

The sharpness in waspish doesn't refer to a physical feeling, but a metaphorical one of being 'cut' by words.