Gruff

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ɡɹʌf/
• Rhymes: -ÊŒf

Origin

Middle Dutch grof ("coarse")

Full definition of gruff

Adjective

1. having a rough, surly, and harsh demeanor and nature.
2. hoarse-voiced.

Derived terms

• gruffly
• gruffness

Verb

1. To speak gruffly.
• 2001, Benny Hinn, He Touched Me: An Autobiography“Who gave you that?” replied my father angrily. “Did you bribe someone?” “No,” I told him. “It was a gift, from some people who really want me to be on this trip.” “Fine,” he gruffed.----