1
: rough, brusque, or stern in manner, speech, or aspect
a gruff reply
2
: being deep and harsh : hoarse
a gruff voice
gruffly
adverb
gruffness
noun
gruffed; gruffing; gruffs
: to utter in a gruff voice or manner
"Get out of bed now!" gruffed the sergeant.
Synonyms
Examples of gruff in a Sentence
Adjective
Don't be fooled by his gruff manner—he's really very kind.
He spoke in a gruff voice.
Recent Examples on the Web
Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 19 Nov. 2024
Jason Isaacs brings gruff humor and gravitas to Doyle’s character, while Haley Joel Osment’s optimistic portrayal of Chet balances the film’s tone.
—Charlie Fink, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024
James Hookway, WSJ, 16 May 2022
Pompeo, often gruff in interactions with reporters, is a skilled retail politician and, although not a soaring orator, is adept at holding an audience’s attention.
—David M. Drucker, Washington Examiner, 2 Mar. 2021
See all Example Sentences for gruff 
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Adjective
The gruff verses in the latter still convey the sense that Shinoda thrives with an alternatingly coarser and softer vocal counterpart.
—Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 19 Nov. 2024
Jason Isaacs brings gruff humor and gravitas to Doyle’s character, while Haley Joel Osment’s optimistic portrayal of Chet balances the film’s tone.
—Charlie Fink, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024
Verb
Devs, normally gruff with his postgame talks, couldn’t hide his pleasure.
—James Hookway, WSJ, 16 May 2022
Pompeo, often gruff in interactions with reporters, is a skilled retail politician and, although not a soaring orator, is adept at holding an audience’s attention.
—David M. Drucker, Washington Examiner, 2 Mar. 2021
See all Example Sentences for gruff
Dictionary Entries Near gruff
Cite this Entry
“Gruff.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gruff. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.
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