Gruff
[grʌf] or [ɡrʌf]
Definition
(adj.) deep and harsh sounding as if from shouting or illness or emotion; 'gruff voices'; 'the dog's gruff barking'; 'hoarse cries'; 'makes all the instruments sound powerful but husky'- Virgil Thomson .
Inputed by Bruno--From WordNet
Definition
(superl.) Of a rough or stern manner, voice, or countenance; sour; surly; severe; harsh.
Edited by Colin
Synonyms and Synonymous
a. Rough, churlish, rude, uncivil, uncourteous, ungracious, impolite, bluff, blunt, harsh, BRUSQUE.
Editor: Rhoda
Synonyms and Antonyms
SYN:Rough, surly, bearish, harsh, rude, blunt
ANT:Smooth, mild, affable, courteous
Typed by Cedric
Definition
adj. rough stern or abrupt in manner: churlish.—adv. Gruff′ly.—n. Gruff′ness.
Edited by Erna
Examples
- Krempe was a little squat man, with a gruff voice and repulsive countenance; the teacher, therefore, did not prepossess me in favour of his doctrine. Mary Shelley. Frankenstein_Or_The Modern Prometheus.
- He was always gruff with him, but he has been kind to the children since. Charles Dickens. Bleak House.
- The gruff voice was gruffer than ever, as the old gentleman said abruptly, after the dreadful pause, So you're not afraid of me, hey? Louisa May Alcott. Little Women.
- Mr. Gridley gave his consent gruff--but gave it. Charles Dickens. Bleak House.
- And long on the bright steps stood Gruff and Glum, looking after the pretty bride, with a narcotic consciousness of having dreamed a dream. Charles Dickens. Our Mutual Friend.
- I am all right, said gruff Old Orlick. Charles Dickens. Great Expectations.
- Mr. Larkins (a gruff old gentleman with a double chin, and one of his eyes immovable in his head) is fraught with interest to me. Charles Dickens. David Copperfield.
- The gruff voice was gruffer than ever, as the old gentleman said abruptly, after the dreadful pause, So you're not afraid of me, hey? Louisa May Alcott. Little Women.
Edited by Bertram