Similes are comparisons that make writing more interesting. They help us describe things by comparing them to something else. For example, when we say someone is “as mean as a snake,” we are using a simile to show that the person is very unkind. Similes are a fun way to bring stories and descriptions to life, and they make it easier to understand how something or someone feels or behaves.
In this article, we will explore some similes for the word “mean.” These comparisons will help you understand how to describe someone who is unkind, rude, or hurtful in a creative way. You’ll also have the chance to test your knowledge with a quick quiz at the end. By the time you finish, you’ll be able to use these similes in your own writing to make it more colorful and descriptive.
Similes for Mean
1. As mean as a snake
Meaning: Very unkind or cruel.
Example Sentence: She was as mean as a snake, always picking on others at school.
Other ways to say: As cruel as a wolf, as wicked as a witch.
Fun Fact/Origin: Snakes are often seen as dangerous and sneaky, which is why they are used in this simile.
Usage: Used to describe someone who is harsh or unkind.
2. As mean as a junkyard dog
Meaning: Very aggressive or unfriendly.
Example Sentence: The neighbor’s dog was as mean as a junkyard dog, barking at everyone who walked by.
Other ways to say: As grumpy as a bear, as fierce as a lion.
Fun Fact/Origin: Junkyard dogs are often protective and tough.
Usage: Used to describe someone who is unfriendly or hostile.
3. As mean as a bull
Meaning: Very angry and aggressive.
Example Sentence: He was as mean as a bull when he didn’t get his way in the game.
Other ways to say: As mad as a hornet, as tough as nails.
Fun Fact/Origin: Bulls are known for their strength and temper.
Usage: Used to describe someone who is irritable and easily angered.
4. As mean as a wolf
Meaning: Very cold or ruthless.
Example Sentence: The boss was as mean as a wolf when he yelled at the team for being late.
Other ways to say: As cruel as a lion, as harsh as winter.
Fun Fact/Origin: Wolves are known for being fierce hunters.
Usage: Describes someone who is harsh and unforgiving.
5. As mean as a cat with a sore paw
Meaning: Easily irritated or grumpy.
Example Sentence: She was as mean as a cat with a sore paw when she didn’t get enough sleep.
Other ways to say: As cranky as a tired bear, as moody as a stormy day.
Fun Fact/Origin: Cats are known for being temperamental, especially when they’re hurt.
Usage: Used to describe someone who is easily upset.
6. As mean as a schoolyard bully
Meaning: Very unkind, often picking on others.
Example Sentence: The older kids were as mean as a schoolyard bully, teasing the younger students.
Other ways to say: As cruel as a villain, as tough as a street fighter.
Fun Fact/Origin: Bullies often target others to feel powerful.
Usage: Describes someone who enjoys hurting others emotionally or physically.
7. As mean as a grizzly bear
Meaning: Very tough and aggressive.
Example Sentence: The coach was as mean as a grizzly bear when the players made mistakes during practice.
Other ways to say: As fierce as a lion, as wild as a tiger.
Fun Fact/Origin: Grizzly bears are known for their strength and fierceness.
Usage: Used to describe someone who is aggressive and powerful.
8. As mean as a wet cat
Meaning: Very angry or upset, especially when things don’t go as planned.
Example Sentence: He was as mean as a wet cat when he lost the game.
Other ways to say: As mad as a hornet, as furious as a storm.
Fun Fact/Origin: Cats dislike being wet, so the comparison suggests being upset.
Usage: Describes someone who is in a bad mood.
9. As mean as a raging bull
Meaning: Very angry and out of control.
Example Sentence: The teacher was as mean as a raging bull when she caught the students cheating.
Other ways to say: As mad as a lion, as hot as a fire.
Fun Fact/Origin: Bulls can be dangerous when they’re angry, making this simile very vivid.
Usage: Used to describe someone in a state of extreme anger.
10. As mean as a snake in the grass
Meaning: Sneaky or deceptive, pretending to be harmless.
Example Sentence: He was as mean as a snake in the grass, pretending to be friendly while spreading rumors.
Other ways to say: As sneaky as a fox, as tricky as a wolf.
Fun Fact/Origin: Snakes hide in the grass, often surprising their prey with an attack.
Usage: Describes someone who is deceitful or pretending to be nice.
11. As mean as a wolf in sheep’s clothing
Meaning: Pretending to be harmless when they are actually dangerous.
Example Sentence: The man seemed nice, but he was as mean as a wolf in sheep’s clothing.
Other ways to say: As sneaky as a fox, as clever as a chameleon.
Fun Fact/Origin: This phrase comes from the Bible and means that someone may look good on the outside but is bad on the inside.
Usage: Describes someone who hides their true nature behind a friendly face.
12. As mean as a hawk
Meaning: Very sharp, critical, or unfriendly.
Example Sentence: The teacher was as mean as a hawk when she gave everyone a test without warning.
Other ways to say: As cold as ice, as tough as a steel trap.
Fun Fact/Origin: Hawks are known for being sharp-eyed and focused.
Usage: Describes someone who is strict or harsh.
13. As mean as a viper
Meaning: Very bitter and venomous.
Example Sentence: She was as mean as a viper when she shouted at her friend for no reason.
Other ways to say: As cruel as a rattlesnake, as dangerous as a shark.
Fun Fact/Origin: A viper is a type of venomous snake, making this comparison about danger and cruelty.
Usage: Describes someone who is malicious or spiteful.
14. As mean as a black widow spider
Meaning: Dangerous and deadly, especially to those around them.
Example Sentence: His words were as mean as a black widow spider, always hurting others with sharp comments.
Other ways to say: As cruel as a jaguar, as harsh as a storm.
Fun Fact/Origin: Black widow spiders are known for being deadly.
Usage: Describes someone whose behavior or actions can be harmful or dangerous.
15. As mean as a bullfrog
Meaning: Annoying or grumpy.
Example Sentence: He was as mean as a bullfrog, croaking complaints about everything.
Other ways to say: As grouchy as a toad, as grumpy as a rainy day.
Fun Fact/Origin: Bullfrogs are loud and have a reputation for being unpleasant.
Usage: Describes someone who is irritable or unpleasant.
16. As mean as a pitbull
Meaning: Very aggressive or ready to fight.
Example Sentence: He was as mean as a pitbull, always ready to argue with anyone who disagreed with him.
Other ways to say: As tough as a lion, as fierce as a bear.
Fun Fact/Origin: Pitbulls are known for their strong protective instincts.
Usage: Used to describe someone who is aggressive or confrontational.
17. As mean as a weasel
Meaning: Sneaky or untrustworthy.
Example Sentence: He was as mean as a weasel, always hiding his true intentions from everyone.
Other ways to say: As sly as a fox, as tricky as a raccoon.
Fun Fact/Origin: Weasels are small and known for being tricky and elusive.
Usage: Describes someone who is dishonest or sneaky.
18. As mean as a dragon
Meaning: Fierce and intimidating.
Example Sentence: The principal was as mean as a dragon when he scolded the students for being late.
Other ways to say: As harsh as a lion, as tough as a shark.
Fun Fact/Origin: Dragons are often depicted as fierce and powerful creatures in myths.
Usage: Describes someone who is intimidating or terrifying in their anger.
19. As mean as a raccoon
Meaning: Mischievous or destructive.
Example Sentence: He was as mean as a raccoon, getting into trouble everywhere he went.
Other ways to say: As cheeky as a monkey, as naughty as a puppy.
Fun Fact/Origin: Raccoons are known for getting into things they shouldn’t, often causing trouble.
Usage: Used to describe someone who behaves in a troublesome or mischievous way.
20. As mean as a shark
Meaning: Cold and ruthless.
Example Sentence: His remarks were as mean as a shark, cutting deep and leaving no room for mercy.
Other ways to say: As tough as nails, as cruel as a tiger.
Fun Fact/Origin: Sharks are feared for their cold, calculating nature.
Usage: Used to describe someone who is ruthless and uncaring.
21. As mean as a hornet
Meaning: Very angry and ready to sting.
Example Sentence: He was as mean as a hornet when he found out someone took his lunch.
Other ways to say: As mad as a bee, as furious as a bull.
Fun Fact/Origin: Hornets are known for their painful stings and aggressive nature.
Usage: Used to describe someone who is extremely angry or irritable.
22. As mean as a badger
Meaning: Stubborn and aggressive.
Example Sentence: She was as mean as a badger, not backing down from an argument.
Other ways to say: As tough as a bulldog, as feisty as a cat.
Fun Fact/Origin: Badgers are known for being fierce when protecting their territory.
Usage: Describes someone who is stubborn and unwilling to compromise.
23. As mean as a crocodile
Meaning: Cold-hearted and cruel.
Example Sentence: He was as mean as a crocodile, smiling while making others feel uncomfortable.
Other ways to say: As cold as ice, as harsh as a stone.
Fun Fact/Origin: Crocodiles are known for their deadly nature and ability to hide their true intentions.
Usage: Used to describe someone who is deceptive or heartless.
24. As mean as a scorpion
Meaning: Vicious and dangerous.
Example Sentence: She was as mean as a scorpion, always striking when you least expected it.
Other ways to say: As dangerous as a snake, as cruel as a lion.
Fun Fact/Origin: Scorpions are known for their painful stings and stealthy nature.
Usage: Describes someone who is unpredictable and harmful.
25. As mean as a lion
Meaning: Very aggressive and forceful.
Example Sentence: His anger was as mean as a lion, roaring at anyone who challenged him.
Other ways to say: As fierce as a tiger, as tough as a bear.
Fun Fact/Origin: Lions are considered the “king of the jungle” due to their powerful presence.
Usage: Used to describe someone who is forceful or commanding.
26. As mean as a tiger
Meaning: Fierce, intimidating, or dangerous.
Example Sentence: She was as mean as a tiger when she found out someone had stolen her pen.
Other ways to say: As tough as nails, as wild as a lion.
Fun Fact/Origin: Tigers are known for their strength and wild nature.
Usage: Describes someone who is tough and intimidating.
27. As mean as a bulldog
Meaning: Very aggressive and determined.
Example Sentence: The security guard was as mean as a bulldog, refusing to let anyone pass without proper ID.
Other ways to say: As tough as nails, as strong as a horse.
Fun Fact/Origin: Bulldogs are known for their muscular build and tenacity.
Usage: Describes someone who is firm and unyielding in their actions.
28. As mean as a mosquito
Meaning: Annoying and persistent.
Example Sentence: His constant complaints were as mean as a mosquito buzzing in your ear.
Other ways to say: As irritating as a fly, as bothersome as a gnat.
Fun Fact/Origin: Mosquitoes are small but can be incredibly annoying, especially when they won’t leave you alone.
Usage: Used to describe someone or something that is constantly bothersome.
29. As mean as a tarantula
Meaning: Scary and intimidating.
Example Sentence: The look he gave me was as mean as a tarantula, making me feel uncomfortable.
Other ways to say: As scary as a wolf, as threatening as a panther.
Fun Fact/Origin: Tarantulas are large and have an intimidating appearance, even though they’re not as dangerous as people often think.
Usage: Describes someone who is intimidating or frightening.
30. As mean as a raven
Meaning: Dark, cold, or mysterious in their cruelty.
Example Sentence: Her words were as mean as a raven’s caw, sharp and ominous.
Other ways to say: As cold as stone, as dark as night.
Fun Fact/Origin: Ravens are often seen as symbols of bad luck or foreboding in many cultures.
Usage: Describes someone whose actions or words are cold and harsh.
31. As mean as a fox
Meaning: Cunning and devious.
Example Sentence: He was as mean as a fox, always tricking people into doing his work for him.
Other ways to say: As sly as a weasel, as tricky as a raccoon.
Fun Fact/Origin: Foxes are known for their cleverness and ability to outsmart others.
Usage: Used to describe someone who is sneaky or dishonest.
32. As mean as a turkey
Meaning: Unkind and unpleasant.
Example Sentence: He was as mean as a turkey, always strutting around and picking fights.
Other ways to say: As rude as a pig, as tough as a goat.
Fun Fact/Origin: Turkeys are often seen as territorial and sometimes aggressive during the mating season.
Usage: Used to describe someone who is rude or unfriendly.
33. As mean as a ravenous wolf
Meaning: Very hungry and ready to attack.
Example Sentence: The crowd was as mean as a ravenous wolf, eager to get their food at the school event.
Other ways to say: As hungry as a bear, as wild as a tiger.
Fun Fact/Origin: Wolves are known for hunting in packs and being aggressive when hungry.
Usage: Used to describe someone who is aggressive and focused on getting what they want.
34. As mean as a wild boar
Meaning: Unpredictable and aggressive.
Example Sentence: The team was as mean as a wild boar, charging at the ball without hesitation.
Other ways to say: As tough as a buffalo, as wild as a stallion.
Fun Fact/Origin: Wild boars are known for being fast, aggressive, and hard to control.
Usage: Describes someone who is fierce and unpredictable.
35. As mean as a shark in a feeding frenzy
Meaning: Extremely aggressive, especially when seeking something.
Example Sentence: He was as mean as a shark in a feeding frenzy, pushing others out of the way to get ahead in the line.
Other ways to say: As aggressive as a lion, as competitive as a racehorse.
Fun Fact/Origin: Sharks are known to become very aggressive when feeding, often attacking anything in their way.
Usage: Describes someone who is overly aggressive and determined to get what they want at all costs.
Quiz: Similes for Mean
Instructions: Choose the correct meaning for each simile. Each question has one correct answer. Use what you’ve learned from the similes to find the best choice.
Question Key
1. Which simile means someone who is very angry and ready to cause trouble?
A) As mean as a hornet
B) As friendly as a puppy
C) As calm as a lake
2. What does “as mean as a scorpion” describe?
A) Someone who is quiet and kind
B) Someone who is cruel and dangerous
C) Someone who is funny and friendly
3. If someone is “as mean as a lion,” what are they like?
A) Fierce and very angry
B) Quiet and calm
C) Gentle and calm
4. What does “as mean as a mosquito” mean?
A) Someone who is big and strong
B) Someone who is annoying and persistent
C) Someone who is always happy
5. “As mean as a badger” describes someone who is:
A) Quiet and friendly
B) Stubborn and aggressive
C) Soft and calm
6. When someone is “as mean as a crocodile,” they are:
A) Cold-hearted and cruel
B) Fun-loving and silly
C) Always happy
7. If someone is “as mean as a wolf,” they are:
A) Gentle and caring
B) Aggressive and strong
C) Quiet and shy
8. What does it mean if someone is “as mean as a bulldog”?
A) They are calm and friendly
B) They are determined and tough
C) They are funny and playful
9. If someone is “as mean as a shark,” they are:
A) Kind and helpful
B) Very aggressive and focused
C) Quiet and peaceful
10. “As mean as a raven” describes someone who is:
A) Friendly and kind
B) Mysterious and cruel
C) Quiet and shy
Answer Key
- A) As mean as a hornet
- B) Someone who is cruel and dangerous
- A) Fierce and very angry
- B) Someone who is annoying and persistent
- B) Stubborn and aggressive
- A) Cold-hearted and cruel
- B) Aggressive and strong
- B) They are determined and tough
- B) Very aggressive and focused
- B) Mysterious and cruel
Wrapping Up
Now you know many different similes for mean. These comparisons help us describe people or actions that are unkind or harsh in a fun and interesting way. Whether it’s someone as mean as a bull or as annoying as a mosquito, similes give us the chance to be creative with our words.
Next time you want to talk about someone who is being mean, try using one of these similes to make your description more colorful and clear. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be using these similes easily in your writing and conversations!
