Harsh

Pronunciation

• Rhymes: -ɑː(ɹ)ʃ

Origin

From Middle English, from Middle Low German harsch ("rough"), literally "hairy," from haer ("hair"). Cognate with German harsch.

Full definition of harsh

Adjective

1. Unpleasantly rough to the touch or other senses.
2. Severe or cruel.
• 2011, November 5, Phil Dawkes, QPR 2 - 3 Man City, Great news for City, but the result was harsh on Neil Warnock's side who gave as good as they got even though the odds were stacked against them.

Antonyms

• genteel

Verb

1. (intransitive, slang) To negatively criticize. Quit harshing me already, I said that I was sorry!
• 2008, An Na, The Fold‎, Stop harshing on yourself. Who said you're the ugly sister?
• 2009, Richard Powers, Gain, “Stop harshing on me, Daddy.” “Harshing?” “Don't yell at me. I didn't do anything.”
2. (transitive, slang) to put a damper on (a mood). Dude, you're harshing my buzz.
• 1999, Kurt Andersen, Turn of the century‎, On their third date, Lizzie had actually said to him, "You're sort of harshing my mellow." It made him wonder if she might be stupid, and not just young.
• 2003, w, The Janson Directive‎, "They're mostly mercenaries these days. But whose?" "Serbian mercenaries? You're harshing my groove, man. I'm gonna pretend I didn't hear that...."
• 2006, MaryJanice Davidson, Undead and Unpopular‎, "Getting back to the issue of the child," Tina said, harshing our buzz as usual, "I really think you should reconsider...."
• 2008, Kate William, Secrets‎ - Page 70, He's totally harshing my vibe," Lila said airily. "Someone should tell him to get over himself. He's lucky I even invited him!"

Synonyms

• rough

Derived terms

• harshly
• harshness