Need another word for Gruffly? Use these synonyms of Gruffly from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
brusquely
curtly
rudely
bluntly
harshly
gruffly
roughly
sharply
abruptly
briefly
snappishly
testily
irritably
peevishly
crossly
crabbedly
sullenly
morosely
gloomily
dourly
sourly
tartly
acidly
caustically
bitingly
sarcastically
cynically
brashly
coarsely
crudely
crudely
unkindly
ungentlely
ungallantly
discourteously
impolitely
inconsiderately
thoughtlessly
carelessly
heedlessly
brutally
savagely
ferociously
violently
aggressively
belligerently
pugnaciously
contentiously
disagreeably
unpleasantly
offensively
unamiably
affrontingly
insultingly
derisively
mockingly
tauntingly
teasingly
Meaning of Gruffly
The primary meaning of the word "gruffly" is in a rough or harsh manner, often indicating a lack of politeness or friendliness.
Definitions
- Used to describe speech or behavior that is rough, harsh, or unfriendly in manner
- Indicating a lack of polish or refinement in speech or demeanor
- Suggesting a short-tempered or irritable disposition
Etymology of Gruffly
The word "gruffly" originates from the adjective "gruff," which is thought to have come from the Middle English word "gruffen," meaning to grumble or complain, with possible connections to the Old English word "grēofan," meaning to dig or burrow, and the Middle Low German word "grūven," meaning to grumble
Historically, the term has been used to describe rough or harsh sounds, especially in the context of a person's voice, and has since expanded to encompass behavior and demeanor
Example Uses
- He spoke gruffly to the stranger, clearly not in the mood for conversation
- The old man gruffly ordered his coffee, his gruff demeanor softening slightly as he waited for his drink
- The teacher gruffly reminded the students to stay on task, her gruff tone a warning against further distraction
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
politely
courteously
kindly
gently
softly
smoothly
sweetly
amiably
affably
cordially
warmly
friendly
genially
hospitably
graciously
considerately
thoughtfully
carefully
heedfully
tactfully
diplomatically
charmingly
winsomely
pleasantly
agreeably
delightfully
cheerfully
jovially
affably
approachably
welcomingly
invitingly