cross-grained

[ kraws-greynd, kros- ]

/ ˈkrɔsˈgreɪnd, ˈkrɒs- /

having the grain running transversely or diagonally, or having an irregular or gnarled grain, as timber.

stubborn; perverse.

Origin of cross-grained

First recorded in 1640–50

cross-grained·ly, adverb cross-grained·ness, noun

From beginning to end it all seems so unnecessary, such a needless, cross-grained muddle.

The Country House |John Galsworthy
Because they're cross-grained, or ill-tempered, or disagreeable?

He Knew He Was Right |Anthony Trollope
How could one of his cross-grained, unfortunate, almost accursed stock, have contrived to reach this pitch of niceness?

Jude the Obscure |Thomas Hardy
The last half-hour I have been seeing nothing but perplexity and cross-grained guardians.

Mrs. Halliburton's Troubles |Mrs. Henry Wood

That one will be straight-grained, however, and stronger than the sawed ones, which will be cross-grained.

Woodworking for Beginners |Charles Gardner Wheeler

cross-grained

(of timber) having the fibres arranged irregularly or in a direction that deviates from the axis of the piece

perverse, cantankerous, or stubborn