gruff

The definition of gruff is something harsh sounding, or someone who is abrupt and short-tempered.

(adjective)

  1. The low, deep and scratchy voice of a lifelong smoker is an example of a gruff voice.
  2. When a grumpy old man always scowls and gives short one-word answers when he is spoken to, he is an example of someone who would be described as gruff.

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See gruff in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adjective

  1. rough or surly in manner or speech; brusquely rude
  2. harsh and throaty; hoarse

Origin: < Du grof, akin to Ger grob, coarse, surly < OHG gerob < ge-, intens. + base akin to OE hreof, rough, scabby < IE base *kreup-: see graupel

Related Forms:

See gruff in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adjective gruff·er, gruff·est
  1. Brusque or stern in manner or appearance: a gruff reply.
  2. Hoarse; harsh: a gruff voice.

Origin:

Origin: Dutch grof

Origin: , from Middle Dutch

Origin: or Middle Low German

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Related Forms:

  • gruffˈly adverb
  • gruffˈness noun

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