Have you ever come across a word in a novel that seems simple, yet carries layers of meaning that shape the entire story? In S.E. Hinton’s classic coming-of-age novel, The Outsiders, the word “ornery” is one such term. It pops up in dialogue and descriptions, coloring the personalities of both people and animals, and offering a window into the world of the Greasers. But what is the true definition of ornery in The Outsiders, and why does it matter so much to the story?
The Outsiders, first published in 1967, is a staple of American literature, especially in middle and high school classrooms. Set in 1960s Oklahoma, the novel follows Ponyboy Curtis and his gang of friends—the Greasers—as they navigate the challenges of poverty, violence, and social division. Hinton’s writing is celebrated for its authentic teenage voice, vivid characters, and the way it captures the slang and dialect of its time. Understanding the language used in The Outsiders, especially words like “ornery,” is key to appreciating the depth of the characters and the themes that drive the story.
This blog post will explore the definition of ornery in The Outsiders, starting with its general meaning and etymology, then diving into how S.E. Hinton uses the word in the novel. We’ll look at specific examples, analyze the characters described as ornery, and discuss how this single word helps shape the book’s themes of rebellion, toughness, and survival. By the end, you’ll see how understanding a word as simple as “ornery” can unlock new layers of meaning in The Outsiders and enrich your reading experience.
What Does “Ornery” Mean Generally?
To fully grasp the definition of ornery in The Outsiders, it helps to start with the word’s general meaning. In American English, “ornery” is an adjective used to describe someone who is bad-tempered, stubborn, cranky, or has a mean disposition. It’s a word that often pops up in everyday conversation, especially in certain regions of the United States, and it carries a slightly playful, yet disapproving tone.
The dictionary definition of “ornery” typically includes:
- Bad-tempered or easily annoyed
- Stubborn or difficult to deal with
- Cranky, irritable, or combative
- Having a mean or ugly disposition
The etymology of “ornery” is quite interesting. The word originated as a dialectal contraction of “ordinary” in American English. The Oxford English Dictionary traces its earliest use back to 1692, when it simply meant “commonplace” or “of poor quality.” Over time, especially by the early 19th century, “ornery” evolved in American regional speech to describe someone who was not just ordinary, but also difficult, mean-spirited, or cantankerous. This shift in meaning reflects how language can change based on cultural and regional influences .
“Ornery” is most commonly used in the United States, particularly in the South and Midwest. It’s a word you might hear in stories by Mark Twain, who often used it to describe mischievous or stubborn characters. For example, in Twain’s The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, a character might be called “ornery” for being difficult or contrary. In modern usage, you might hear someone say, “My grandpa gets ornery when he misses his morning coffee,” or “That dog is too ornery to train.”
Notable dictionary sources, such as Merriam-Webster and Oxford, support these definitions, emphasizing the word’s association with stubbornness, irritability, and a tendency to be difficult or combative. In summary, “ornery” is a word with deep roots in American English, carrying a sense of playful disapproval and regional flavor .
The Definition of Ornery in The Outsiders
Now that we’ve established the general meaning, let’s turn to the definition of ornery in The Outsiders. S.E. Hinton uses the word in ways that reflect both its dictionary meaning and its unique flavor in the context of 1960s Oklahoma.
One of the most memorable uses of “ornery” in the novel is in the description of Mickey Mouse, a horse that belonged to Sodapop Curtis. The text describes Mickey Mouse as a “dark-gold buckskin, sassy and ornery, not much more than a colt.” This phrase paints a vivid picture of a spirited, wild animal—full of energy, difficult to control, and possessing a stubborn streak . Mickey Mouse’s orneriness is not just about being mean or cranky; it’s about being untamed, independent, and unwilling to be broken by anyone.
But “ornery” in The Outsiders isn’t limited to animals. It’s also used to describe people, especially those who are tough, combative, or quick to argue. Dallas “Dally” Winston, one of the most complex characters in the novel, is often described as mean, tough, and ornery. Dally’s orneriness is a defining trait—he’s quick to anger, always ready for a fight, and fiercely independent. His behavior is a mix of stubbornness, defiance, and a refusal to back down, even in the face of authority or danger .
The word “ornery” in The Outsiders carries several shades of meaning:
- Ill-tempered and difficult to control: Whether it’s a horse like Mickey Mouse or a person like Dally, orneriness signals a refusal to be tamed or dominated.
- Stubborn and combative: Characters described as ornery are often the ones who stand their ground, argue, or push back against others.
- Quick to get annoyed or argue: Orneriness can also mean being easily irritated or ready to complain, adding a layer of complexity to the character’s personality.
The dialect and slang of 1960s Oklahoma play a big role in how “ornery” is used in the novel. The Outsiders is filled with regional expressions and colloquial language that reflect the setting and the social class of the characters. Words like “ornery” help ground the story in its time and place, making the characters’ voices feel authentic and real .
It’s also important to note the nuance between the formal dictionary definition of “ornery” and its colloquial use in the novel. While the dictionary might focus on “bad-tempered” or “mean-spirited,” in The Outsiders, orneriness is often tied to a sense of pride, independence, and resilience. It’s not just about being difficult; it’s about surviving in a tough world and refusing to be broken by it .
Literary glossaries and vocabulary lists for The Outsiders often define “ornery” as “ugly or mean disposition” or “obstinate,” which matches the way the word is used in the book . Scholarly interpretations also highlight how Hinton’s use of words like “ornery” adds depth to her characters and reflects the cultural and social environment of the 1960s .
Characters Described as Ornery and Their Role in the Story
The definition of ornery in The Outsiders comes to life through the characters who embody it. Let’s take a closer look at the key figures described as ornery and how this trait shapes their roles in the story.
Mickey Mouse (the horse) is perhaps the most literal example. Described as “sassy and ornery,” Mickey Mouse is a wild, spirited animal who refuses to be tamed. Sodapop, Ponyboy’s older brother, has a special bond with the horse, admiring his independence and rebelliousness. Mickey Mouse’s orneriness is a symbol of the freedom and untamed spirit that the Greasers long for. When the horse is sold by its owner, it’s a heartbreaking moment for Sodapop, highlighting the economic struggles and lack of control the Greasers face in their lives .
Dallas “Dally” Winston is the human embodiment of orneriness in The Outsiders. Dally is tough, mean, and always ready for a fight. He’s described as having his “usual mean, ornery self,” and his actions throughout the novel—challenging authority, getting into trouble, and fiercely protecting his friends—showcase his combative and stubborn nature. Dally’s orneriness is not just a personality quirk; it’s a survival mechanism. Growing up on the streets, Dally has learned to be tough and unyielding as a way to protect himself and those he cares about .
Other characters in the novel also display moments of orneriness. For example, Two-Bit Mathews is known for his wisecracks and playful defiance, while Ponyboy himself can be stubborn and quick to argue, especially when he feels misunderstood or threatened. These moments of orneriness add depth to the characters, making them feel real and relatable.
Orneriness in The Outsiders is more than just a character trait—it’s a symbol of the challenges the Greasers face. The Greasers live in a world that is often hostile and unforgiving, and their orneriness is a way of pushing back against the forces that try to keep them down. It’s a form of resilience, a refusal to be broken by poverty, violence, or social prejudice .
This trait also connects to the theme of conflict in the novel. The Greasers are constantly at odds with the Socs, the wealthier, more privileged group in town. Orneriness becomes a badge of honor, a way for the Greasers to assert their identity and stand up for themselves in a world that often dismisses them .
Thematic Significance of “Ornery” in The Outsiders
The use of “ornery” in The Outsiders goes beyond individual characters—it reflects some of the novel’s most important themes, including rebellion, toughness, and survival.
Rebellion is at the heart of The Outsiders. The Greasers are outsiders not just because of their social class, but because they refuse to conform to the expectations of society. Their orneriness is a form of rebellion—a way of asserting their independence and refusing to be controlled by others. Whether it’s Mickey Mouse refusing to be tamed or Dally challenging authority, orneriness is a marker of the Greasers’ defiance .
Toughness is another key theme. The Greasers have to be tough to survive in a world that is often hostile and dangerous. Orneriness is part of this toughness—it’s the ability to stand up for oneself, to push back against adversity, and to keep going even when things get hard. For characters like Dally, orneriness is a shield that protects them from vulnerability and pain .
Survival is a constant struggle in The Outsiders. The Greasers face economic hardship, violence, and social exclusion, and their orneriness is a way of coping with these challenges. It’s a defense mechanism, a way of staying strong in the face of adversity. The word “ornery” becomes a linguistic marker of the Greasers’ social class and cultural identity, setting them apart from the more privileged Socs .
Orneriness also plays a role in the relationships between the Greasers and the Socs. The Greasers’ defiance and stubbornness are often misunderstood by the Socs, leading to conflict and tension. But for the Greasers, orneriness is a source of pride—a way of holding on to their dignity and self-respect in a world that tries to take it away .
S.E. Hinton’s use of culturally rich language like “ornery” makes The Outsiders relatable and authentic. It grounds the story in its time and place, and it gives the characters voices that feel real and true. This authenticity is one of the reasons the novel has remained so popular for decades .
How Understanding “Ornery” Enhances Reader Appreciation
Why does it matter to understand the definition of ornery in The Outsiders? The answer lies in the power of language to shape our understanding of characters, themes, and the world of the novel.
Grasping the vocabulary and dialect used in The Outsiders is essential for deeper comprehension. Words like “ornery” are not just decorative—they carry meaning that reveals character motivation, emotional undercurrents, and social dynamics. When readers understand what it means for a character to be ornery, they gain insight into why that character acts the way they do, and how they relate to the world around them .
Knowing the meaning of ornery also helps readers appreciate the emotional complexity of the characters. For example, Dally’s orneriness is not just about being mean or tough—it’s about protecting himself and his friends in a world that is often cruel. Mickey Mouse’s orneriness is a symbol of the freedom and independence that the Greasers long for. These layers of meaning add depth to the story and make the characters more relatable .
For students and educators, recognizing and interpreting dialect and slang in The Outsiders is a valuable skill. It encourages close reading, critical thinking, and an appreciation for the richness of language. Tips for interpreting dialect and slang include:
- Paying attention to context: How is the word used in the sentence? What does it reveal about the character or situation?
- Looking up unfamiliar words: Use glossaries, vocabulary lists, or online resources to find definitions and examples.
- Considering the cultural and historical context: How does the word reflect the time and place of the story?
- Discussing with others: Talking about the language with classmates or teachers can lead to new insights and a deeper understanding of the novel.
Exploring nuanced vocabulary like “ornery” enriches the reading experience and helps readers connect with the characters and themes on a deeper level. It’s a reminder that every word in a novel is chosen for a reason, and that understanding those choices can unlock new layers of meaning .
Key Takeaways
- The definition of ornery in The Outsiders goes beyond the dictionary meaning of “bad-tempered” or “stubborn.” In the novel, it reflects a spirit of rebellion, toughness, and survival.
- S.E. Hinton uses “ornery” to describe both animals (like Mickey Mouse) and people (like Dally Winston), highlighting their independence, defiance, and resilience.
- The word is deeply tied to the dialect and slang of 1960s Oklahoma, grounding the story in its time and place and adding authenticity to the characters’ voices.
- Understanding the meaning of “ornery” enhances readers’ appreciation of the novel, offering insight into character motivation, emotional complexity, and the broader themes of the story.
- Exploring vocabulary and dialect in literature is a valuable skill that enriches the reading experience and deepens comprehension.
Conclusion
In The Outsiders, the word “ornery” is much more than a simple adjective—it’s a window into the hearts and minds of the characters, and a key to understanding the novel’s themes of rebellion, toughness, and survival. By exploring the definition of ornery in The Outsiders, readers gain a deeper appreciation for S.E. Hinton’s skillful use of language and her ability to create authentic, memorable characters.
S.E. Hinton’s choice of words like “ornery” is not accidental. It reflects the reality of life for the Greasers, their struggles, and their refusal to be broken by a world that often seems stacked against them. The orneriness of characters like Mickey Mouse and Dally Winston is a symbol of the spirit that drives the novel—a spirit of independence, defiance, and hope.
Understanding the language of The Outsiders is essential for unlocking its full meaning. By paying attention to words like “ornery,” readers can connect more deeply with the characters, appreciate the richness of the setting, and see the timeless relevance of Hinton’s story. The Outsiders remains a classic not just because of its plot or characters, but because of the way it uses language to capture the struggles and triumphs of growing up on the margins of society.
For more, visit our website, S-Ornery home.com